Job overview
The Cellular Pathology Laboratory (main base St Richards Hospital, Chichester with a spoke laboratory at Worthing hospital) within the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust currently deals with approximately 35,000 – 40,000 Histology specimens from across the 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 preparation of samples for molecular testing referral. The department is in the process of implementing digital pathology using Hamamatsu scanners and Sectra PACS.
The main laboratory at St Richards Hospital is currently open from 8am to 5:30pm 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 involves regular rotation and participation in different sections of the laboratory including Cut Up/biopsy transfer, frozen sections, Embedding, Microtomy, Special stains, Immunocytochemistry and QC.
As a Biomedical scientist the post holder will undertake a range of complex investigations to assist in the diagnosis of disease and monitoring of treatment. These investigations include manual, semi-automated and automated techniques on specialised analytical equipment.
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.
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
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.
The post holder will act as the departmental Quality Lead, responsible for maintaining and promoting quality standards within the Cellular Pathology service. This includes ensuring ongoing compliance with UKAS ISO 15189 requirements and supporting continuous quality improvement across all aspects of the department.
To provide day-to-day management of allocated sections within the Cellular Pathology laboratory under the direction of the Lead / Deputy Head / Head BMS.
To practice as a Senior Specialist HCPC Registered BMS and provide a high quality service at all times.
An advanced scientific knowledge of cellular pathology along with the ability to demonstrate extensive experience of staff support, training, development and supervision is essential.
An extensive knowledge and awareness of the requirements of UKAS ISO 15189 standards and the UKAS accreditation journey.
The successful candidate will act as part of the Cellular Pathology Senior Specialist BMS team and as the Quality Lead for Cellular Pathology.
See attached Job description and person specification.
Person specification
Qualifications and experience
Essential criteria
1. Registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist
2. Post graduation qualification eg. MSc, IBMS HSD or equivalent qualification
3. Post registration experience in NHS cellular pathology laboratory
Desirable criteria
4. Leadership training or equivalent experience
5. Experience of training junior laboratory personnel in a variety of standard techniques
6. Experience of Laboratory accreditation to UKAS ISO15189
Skills
Essential criteria
7. Proven ability to supervise and train unqualified staff.
8. Excellent communication skills
9. Up-to-date and in depth highly specialist knowledge of Cellular Pathology
Desirable criteria
10. Able to participate in the production and interpretation of audit data
11. Use of a Quality Management System such as Q-pulse
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Essential criteria
12. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role)
13. 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