Associate Practitioner

NHS; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized cancer diagnostic facility in Dorchester is seeking an Associate Practitioner to ensure the smooth operation of its lab services. The role involves supporting biomedical scientists with tasks like embedding and microtomy. A strong background in histopathology is essential, as well as proficiency with relevant laboratory instruments. This position is full-time and offers a chance to work within a growing organization dedicated to improving patient outcomes in cancer treatment.

Qualifications

• Previous laboratory experience is essential.
• Proficient use of embedding and microtomy instruments is essential.
• Excellent attention to detail is required.

Responsibilities

• Paraffin wax embedding of routine cases and large blocks.
• Microtomy of selected surgical cases.
• Assisting pathologists and senior lab staff with tissue dissection.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Embedding and microtomy instruments

Attention to detail

Organized and efficient

Ability to adapt to flexible hours

Education

GCSE English and Maths (A*-C) or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary

We currently have posts available for Associate Practitioners within our team at Poundbury Cancer Institute - a histopathology laboratory located in Poundbury, Dorchester. The role involves ensuring the service we provide our clients runs smoothly, by assisting biomedical scientists and histopathologists in various areas of the cellular pathology lab.

Please note: we cannot provide any VISA sponsorships in this role.

Main duties of the job

This role will be a lab-based position, hence previous histopathology laboratory experience is essential. This includes, but is not limited to, embedding, microtomy, and manual special stains.

About Us

Poundbury Cancer Institute (PCI) has been established in order to improve outcomes for cancer patients by supporting the delivery of the most effective treatment for each individual patient Personalised Medicine.

Poundbury Cancer Institute evolved from pioneering work started in 2012 in the Department of Histopathology at Dorset County Hospital in partnership with Roche Tissue Diagnostics and UK NEQAS-IHC&ISH.

A major emphasis was on providing local patients with cancer diagnostic tests not yet available nationally or for which there were lengthy delays.

The Institute has been set up by local NHS staff with a combination of private investment, commercial funding and charitable donations.

PCI is a growing company, paving the way in the future of Histopathology. Therefore, we are looking for individuals who are looking to evolve with us as we expand and new roles become available.

Job details

Date posted: 01 December 2025

Band: 4

Salary: Depending on experience

Contract: Permanent

Working pattern: Full-time

Reference number: E0061-25-0003

Job location: 3 Queen Mother Square, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 3BJ

Key Responsibilities

• Paraffin wax embedding of routine cases and large (mega) blocks using the tissue embedding instruments.
• Microtomy of selected surgical cases using the range of microtomes to include mega block microtomy.
• Use and maintenance of stainers and tissue processors.
• Manual staining of selected cases including special stains as directed by senior lab staff.
• Assisting pathologists/BMS/senior lab staff with tissue dissection and lab maintenance.
• Perform general clerical duties within the lab, e.g. filing, stock checks.
• Work in a responsible manner to ensure care and accuracy.
• Assisting senior lab staff in the preparation and running of routine immunocytochemistry cases on all PCI platforms.

Person Specification

Experience

• Previous laboratory experience essential.
• Proficient use of embedding and microtomy instruments essential.
• Ability to adapt and work flexible hours depending on workload.
• Being able to identify and prioritise key tasks.
• Organised and efficient - able to take initiative.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Well-mannered, enthusiastic and a willingness to earn.

Desirable

• Previous experience using a LIMS system desirable.

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths (A*-C) or equivalent essential.

Higher education preferable but may be overlooked with appropriate experience.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Poundbury Cancer Institute
Newborough House, 3 Queen Mother Square, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 3BJ
Website: https://www.poundburycancerinstitute.org/