Job overview
The Cellular Pathology Laboratory (main base St Richards Hospital, Chichester) within 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 tissue preparation for molecular 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 must be able demonstrate up to date competency in biopsy cut up, microtomy and embedding of all specimen types, and special stains. They must also have an understanding of quality management systems.
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.
The post holder must maintain professional registration, demonstrating high professional standards of knowledge and competency by undertaking personal continuing professional development. They must also participate in the training and development of other staff.
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, Sectra IDS7 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 deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, 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 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
We look forward to receiving your application and the start of your journey with UHSussex.
Candidate information pack - University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. Sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds, and any role-specific criteria. For example, applicants for the Senior HCA role must be able to evidence a minimum of 2 years’ experience in the same role to qualify for sponsorship.
If you are applying using a Graduate visa as your right to work, you must have a minimum of 18 months remaining on your visa at time of application.
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 cellular pathology specific procedures within NHS laboratory
4. Ability to undertake and report on appropriate biomedical investigations.
Desirable criteria
5. Member of the IBMS at the appropriate level
6. Experience in training of others
7. Demonstrable experience of supervising junior personnel
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Essential criteria
8. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role)
9. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
We value the individuality and authenticity that each candidate brings to the application process. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we strongly discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice, experiences, and motivations—elements that are essential to a fair and accurate evaluation.
Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may misrepresent your abilities and could result in your application being rejected. We encourage you to take the time to present your genuine self, as this helps us better understand your potential and ensures a transparent selection process.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
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 the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications