Anatomical Pathology

Health Match BC; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Forensic Pathologist to conduct autopsy investigations and provide expert testimony in legal matters. This role is pivotal in determining causes of death and contributes significantly to public health and safety. The successful candidate will work within a leading tertiary hospital, collaborating with law enforcement and legal professionals. The position offers a dynamic environment where your expertise will influence critical outcomes in forensic investigations. If you are passionate about making a difference in the field of forensic pathology, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• M.D. with specialty training in Anatomical or Clinical Pathology.
• Fellowship in Forensic Pathology with certification.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough autopsy investigations and prepare reports.
• Provide expert testimony in court and guide investigations.
• Educate and support BCCS members and law enforcement.

Skills

Autopsy Procedures

Death Investigation

Report Writing

Courtroom Testimony

Analytical Thinking

Education

M.D. with Specialty Training

Fellowship in Forensic Pathology

Tools

MS Office

Computer Proficiency

Job description

2 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Role and Facility Information

Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada

Glistening water below lush mountains, dotted with parks, frame the Okanagan's largest and liveliest population centre; Kelowna. Okanagan Lake is perfect for sailing, kayaking, or relaxing on the beach. Rolling greens offer world-class golfing, with spectacular hiking and biking trails nearby. In winter, enjoy ski resorts and skating rinks. Kelowna features heritage buildings and modern architecture, with orchards, vineyards, and all the amenities of a major city. From restaurants and shops to art galleries, live music, and theatre, Kelowna offers a vibrant lifestyle. Experience our four-season playground and see why life is better here.

Kelowna General Hospital

Kelowna General Hospital (KGH) is a leading tertiary hospital within Interior Health, serving as the main regional referral centre with approximately 400 beds and over 84,000 ED visits annually. It hosts the Interior Heart & Surgical Centre (IHSC), BC’s only cardiac critical care centre outside Victoria and the Lower Mainland, opened in 2015. IHSC features 12 specialized operating rooms for thoracic, urology, neurosurgery, vascular, plastics, obstetrics/gynecology, ENT, orthopedics, general, trauma, and 2 dedicated to cardiac surgery. The hospital’s Centennial Building includes modern inpatient units, expanded emergency and ambulatory care, new ORs, and a rooftop helipad. It also has a modern maternity ward, NICU, pediatric ward, adolescent and adult psychiatry units, and advanced laboratories. KGH is a teaching centre for the Southern Medical Program affiliated with UBC and serves as a satellite for UBC Medical School. It is recognized as one of BC’s leading healthcare centres.

Job Overview

The Forensic Pathologist is responsible for autopsy investigations into sudden, unexpected, or unnatural deaths reportable to the BC Coroners Service (BCCS), in accordance with the Coroners Act. The role involves identifying the decedent, determining cause and manner of death, providing documentation and expert opinions for civil and criminal cases, and contributing to death prevention data. The incumbent will conduct autopsies, provide expert testimony in court, assist with quality improvement, and support research. They may act as a representative of the Lead Forensic Pathologist and the Coroners Service, fulfilling delegated leadership activities as needed.

Accountabilities

• Conduct thorough autopsy investigations.
• Guide Coroners and police on death investigations, medical history, and extent of examination.
• Determine whether external examination or full autopsy is necessary, collect specimens for histology, toxicology, and other tests.
• Collaborate with forensic experts (e.g., anthropologists, odontologists) as needed.
• Prepare reports on findings and conclusions.
• Respond to correspondence and inquiries related to investigations.
• Provide balanced expert testimony in court.
• Consult with police, lawyers, and legal counsel regarding investigations and court appearances.
• Attend court sessions, coordinate schedules, and meet with legal professionals prior to testimony.
• Explain findings clearly to judges and juries.
• Promote understanding of forensic pathology to external agencies and individuals.
• Educate and guide BCCS members, police, lawyers, and students in forensic death investigation.
• Support research and publication efforts as needed.

Job Requirements

• Must be an M.D. with specialty training and certification in Anatomical or Clinical Pathology, plus a fellowship in Forensic Pathology, with certification from RCPSC, ABP, or equivalent.
• Knowledge of death investigation, identification techniques, autopsy procedures, report writing, and courtroom testimony.
• Thorough understanding of the Coroners Act and relevant BC legislation (Vital Statistics, Public Health, Cremation & Funeral Services, FOIPPA).
• Proficient in computer use, internet, and MS Office.
• Licensed or eligible for medical licensure in BC; valid driver’s license required.

Behavioral Competencies

• Strategic orientation, innovation, results focus, analytical thinking, relationship building, flexibility, leadership, teamwork, and cooperation.

Travel

Travel may be required to other BCCS sites, including Prince George, Victoria, Burnaby, and Abbotsford, with regular visits to Prince George (~two days every 4-6 weeks).

Impact of Job

The Forensic Pathologist’s conclusions are crucial for coroners’ findings and resolving legal matters, impacting public health and safety.

Comparable Position

Specialist laboratory physician within BC health authorities.

Terms

Clinical Service Contract with competitive remuneration.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Health Care Provider
• Industries: Hospitals and Health Care