Job overview
The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is looking for a motivated and collaborativeTrainee Clinical Vascular Scientistto join our Vascular Assessment Unit (VAU). Our friendly team consists ofeight qualified vascular scientists, one trainee vascular scientistand a wonderfuladministration team.
Applicants for the post must be eligible to apply for - and be accepted onto - the Scientific Training Programme as an in-service trainee. The role is offered on the condition that you are accepted onto the programme as an in-service trainee. You will receive full training and support and will be expected to work towards autonomous practice and obtainaccreditation with The College and Society for Clinical Vascular Science to progress to Band 7.
The team enjoya close and friendly working relationship with the wider surgical, medical and nursing teams and CPD is actively supported, for example,withopportunities to attend study days and conferences.
The post involves cross-site working covering our hub site based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton (where you can be on the beach within a5-10min walk of leaving work!),as well as hospitals inWorthing, Shoreham, Haywards Heathand Eastbourne. Travelling expenses are provided for all travel, excluding to and from your assigned ‘home’ site.
Main duties of the job
The role of a Trainee Clinical Vascular Scientist is to provide a comprehensive range of urgent and routine highly specialised diagnostic vascular ultrasound investigations and provides clinical scientific support to healthcare professionals such as vascular surgery and other specialties, under appropriate level of direct and indirect supervision as required. You may also be involved with research and clinical audit as well as provide ad-hoc support and training to junior staff and other healthcare colleagues.
Applicants for the post must be eligible to apply for - and be accepted onto - the Scientific Training Programme as an in-service trainee. The role is offered on the condition that you are accepted onto the programme as an in-service trainee. You will receive full training and support and will be expected to work towards autonomous practice and obtainaccreditation with The College and Society for Clinical Vascular Science to progress to Band 7.
Working for our organisation
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.
Candidate Pack
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
1. To undertake training and work supervised to perform, interpret and accurately report specialist diagnostic vascular ultrasound investigations in a range of environments (this may require concentration during busy environments with many distractions) to enable appropriate and timely clinical decision-making
2. To recognise when the test is sub-optimal, using alternative methods to obtain accurate results, and modify examinations depending on findings using skills and knowledge obtained through experience
3. Ensure reports are saved onto the appropriate information storage systems, such as PACS, adhering to appropriate information governance
4. Report urgently or routinely to the referring clinician depending on the findings with supervisor support
5. Engage in reflective practice and be able to recognise own limitations, knowing when to seek a second opinion from colleagues and provide a second opinion for other members of the team
6. To prepare patients for examinations, transferring patients to and from wheelchairs, assisting with dressing where appropriate
7. Be responsible for all patients’ safety and well-being during tests and while in attendance in the department, respectfully assisting and supporting patients’ needs
8. To engage in brief conversations with patients and signposting relating to the encouragement of healthier lifestyles
9. Raise and report concerns and limitations which may affect patient management
10. Ensure that clinical areas and diagnostic equipment are kept in a safe, clean and tidy condition
11. Ensure patient confidentiality and dignity at all times, providing an appropriate environment to perform the diagnostic tests and discuss the results
12. Be motivated and engaged in wider training expectations, such as attending MDT meetings, observing vascular procedures/surgery, observing in clinics, completing university requirements
13. Able to prioritise and plan work and learning in accordance with conflicting clinical, training and academic demands
Please see Job Description / Person Specification for more information
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria
14. 1st or 2:1 either in an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree, in a pure or applied science subject relevant to the specialty Or 2:2 honours degree or better in any subject if also hold a higher degree that is relevant to the speciality If English is not your primary language or you do not hold undergraduate or post-graduate qualifications that were taught and assessed in English, then should you be successfully offered a place on the scientific training programme you may need to demonstrate your English language skills. IELTS Academic and IELTS General tests are accepted. A score of 7 or above is required with no element below 6.5. UKVI and non-UKVI versions are accepted. The test needs to be taken at an official test centre and not at home. Note that the level may differ from UKVI requirements. Any test certificate submitted must be no more than 2 years old.
15. Ability to meet the travel requirements of the training role and the clinical rotations
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Essential criteria
16. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role)
17. 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