Job overview
UHSx Histopathology East is looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated HCPC registered Biomedical Scientist to join its busy, friendly team.
Good interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team essential requirements.
The Histology department receives approximately 34,000 requests per annum with all the routine technical work being performed at RSCH. The department provides a service for a wide variety of specialities, which include Renal Medicine, Oncology, Breast Pathology, and Paediatrics as well as to the Brighton & Sussex Medical School.
This position will be based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, and the post-holder will be held accountable to the HR policies and procedures of University Hospitals Sussex.
Routine opening hours of the Cellular Pathology department are 08:30 – 17:00 Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings on a rotational basis
Previous applicants need not apply.
Applicants currently working in a multidisciplinary role or in a different area within Pathology need not apply.
Applicants must have demonstrable registration experience in Histology and must be currently working in a UKAS accredited Cellular Pathology laboratory.
Main duties of the job
The post involves rotation and participation in different sections of the laboratory including microtomy, embedding and special stains
Following training the post holder will also be expected to participate in transfer cut up, frozen sections, Immunocytochemistry, molecular microtomy and routine and digital 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
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.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Please note: This role does not meet the minimum criteria for visa sponsorship under the current UK immigration rules, which set specific salary and skill thresholds. As such, we are unable to provide sponsorship for this post. Applicants will therefore need to already have the right to work in the UK to be considered. We include this information at the outset to provide clarity and avoid unnecessary inconvenience for applicants.
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.
1. Participate in the microtomy and embedding of all specimen types working independently and as part of a team.
2. Following training participate in the rotation for frozen sections, Immunocytochemistry, molecular microtomy and routine and digital QC
3. Following training participate in the transfer of specimens from container to cassette (transfer cut up - Category A)
4. Undertake basic routine maintenance on instruments to ensure correct functioning.
5. Performs the checking and labelling of cellular pathology specimens, resolving any issues identified by junior staff, using knowledge and experience to comment on the suitability of samples if required.
6. Using cellular pathology and medical knowledge to prioritise specimens received in the department
7. Participate in internal quality control of cases before issuing to pathologist.
8. Use of specialist knowledge to determine when further investigations are required on cellular pathology samples.
Please see Job Description and Person Specification for full details.
Person specification
Qualification and experience
Essential criteria
9. Approved IBMS degree + HCPC State registration
10. Ability to cut sections on a range of specimen types including biopsy levels
11. Able to cut and embed biopsy specimens (levels) and core material
12. Currently working in an UKAS accredited Cellular Pathology laboratory
13. Understanding of quality management systems and UKAS 15189 requirements
14. Understanding of Health and Safety processess
Desirable criteria
15. Demonstrable experience in frozen section techniques, Andrology, Special Stains, ROSE clinics
16. Demonstrable competence in transfer cut up
17. Experience in laboratory tracking system and digital Histology
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Essential criteria
18. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues
19. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role)
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