Job overview
The Cellular Pathology Laboratory (main base St Richards Hospital, Chichester) within the newly formed University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust currently deals with approximately 35,000 – 40,000 Histology specimens from across West Sussex including St Richards Hospital, Chichester, Worthing Hospital and Southlands Hospital, Shoreham.
In addition to routine Histology samples the department undertakes work in Immunocytochemistry (ICC), Special Stains, Non-Gynae Diagnostic Cytology and OSNA (Intra-operative Breast Sentinel Node testing). We are currently developing our Digital Pathology pathway. The main laboratory at St Richards Hospital is currently open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, whilst the Worthing Hospital laboratory is open from 8am to 5pm, also Monday to Friday. There is no direct laboratory cover at Southlands Hospital.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will rotate through all key aspects of routine Histopathology including Special Stains and ICC (using Leica Bond III).
It would also be advantageous for at least a basic working knowledge of Non-Gynae Cytology sample preparation, Digital Pathology, along with the ability to cut Frozen Sections.
Ideally we are looking for a Biomedical Scientist who has completed the IBMS Specialist portfolio although we may consider individuals nearing completion of the portfolio. However, pay would be at the top of the band 5 pay scale until completion of the IBMS Specialist portfolio.
Any experience of using Leica equipment, the Cerebro tracking system, WinPath LIMS, Q-Pulse and SHE software will also be advantageous.
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We’re here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our Wellbeing Programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.
As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do.
We look forward to receiving your application and the start of your journey with UHSussex.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
To participate in the provision of a specialised diagnostic Cellular Pathology service, autonomously, contributing to the clinical care of the patient, to enable diagnosis and subsequent monitoring of the effectiveness of the treatment given.
The individual will be expected to apply professional judgement and utilise specialist skills and detailed scientific knowledge to provide a high quality and timely results service, performing routine procedures and investigations as required.
To be able to work independently as an autonomous practitioner.
To deputise for Senior Specialist Biomedical Scientists (B7) as required.
See attached Job description and person specification.
Person specification
Qualifications, Experience & Skills
Essential criteria
1. Registration with the HCPC as a Biomedical Scientist
2. IBMS Specialist Portfolio in relevant discipline, or equivalent
3. Experience of discipline specific procedures within NHS laboratory
4. Ability to work as part of a team
5. Excellent verbal & written communication skills.
6. Ability to undertake and report on appropriate biomedical investigations.
Desirable criteria
7. Member of the IBMS at the appropriate level
8. Experience in training of others
9. Demonstrable experience of supervising junior personnel
10. Experience of using Cerebro.
11. Experience of using WinPath Enterprise
12. Experience of using Q-Pulse
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Essential criteria
13. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
14. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues .
Important information for applicants
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for those that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker.
Closing adverts early: Please apply as early as you're able for this role. In the event of exceptional interest we may close adverts earlier than specified.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications