HSL Microbiology
The HSL Microbiology service (located within the Infection Sciences department) is a broad- ranging pathology service. In addition to routine microbiology diagnostics, the laboratory includes reference and developmental clinical services, with expertise in all areas of conventional and molecular microbiology. As a clinically-led department, we offer a comprehensive 24/7 service in a state-of-the-art pathology complex divided across two levels of the Halo building.
The services provided reflect the needs of our users. Specialist areas include: solid organ and stem cell transplantation, renal dialysis, hepatology, neurosurgery, ENT, ophthalmology, bone and joint infection and blood culture diagnostics. In addition, the laboratory hosts a UK regional Clinical Mycology Network facility and the UK PHE Parasitology reference service.
HSL Microbiology is also responsible for running and developing the laboratory at the high-level isolation pathology unit based within the Royal Free Hospital, where we offer a clinically-led 24/7 multidisciplinary service for patients with the diagnosis of viral hemorrhagic fever (hazard group 4 pathogens).
The department holds the IBMS pre- and post-registration training approval for completion of the IBMS Registration Portfolio and Specialist Diplomas. The laboratory also holds accreditation for STP clinical scientist training. In addition, the department is a leader in training of Microbiology specialist registrars and medical undergraduates, as well as regularly hosting visiting PHE doctors and ESCMID observers.
The department has an extensive research portfolio, working closely with UCL Centre for Clinical Microbiology and other collaborators on translational research projects.
HSL Microbiology is a UKAS Accredited Medical Laboratory No. 8860.
Tests performed by HSL Microbiology (UKAS schedule of accreditation).