Band 8b - Principal Clinical Scientist, Chemical Pathology

NHS; Watford; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The NHS is seeking a Band 8b Principal Clinical Scientist in Chemical Pathology to lead laboratory sections and ensure high-quality service delivery. Candidates should have significant experience in clinical biochemistry, HCPC registration, and relevant qualifications. This role offers opportunities for professional development and participation in cutting-edge healthcare initiatives.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Support for disabilities or long-term health conditions

Qualifications

• Significant experience as a Registered Clinical Scientist at an advanced level (8A).
• Evidence of Continuing Professional Development.
• Recognition as a national or international expert or adviser.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Proteins section of the laboratory and manage quality systems.
• Undertake method and protocol development.
• Participate in the out-of-hours on-call roster for clinical advice.

Skills

Knowledge of human biochemistry

Analytical methods

Quality assurance

Problem-solving

Risk assessments

Education

Master's Degree in Clinical Biochemistry

First Degree or equivalent

PhD (preferred)

HCPC registration as a clinical scientist

Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath)

Tools

Roche Cobas

Siemens Atellica

Sebia

Job description

Go back West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

Band 8b - Principal Clinical Scientist, Chemical Pathology

The closing date is 27 May 2025

Do you thrive in a fast-paced, challenging environment? You can make an impact with us as our next Band 8b Clinical Scientist in Chemical Pathology.

We invite applications from suitably qualified and experienced applicants, with significant experience of working in a busy Chemical Pathology Department.

The successful candidate will be expected to be an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Scientist in Clinical Biochemistry and have successfully completed the Part 1 FRCPath examination.

Those with part 1 FRCPath who are actively working towards obtaining part 2 FRCPath are encouraged to apply. This post will provide full support in preparing for part 2 FRCPath.

Main duties of the job

The post holder is expected to lead the Proteins section of the laboratory and play a major role in the department's Quality Management System.

They will undertake method development, protocol development, and clinical liaison including 'duty' biochemist roles.

They will work closely with IT as data analyst and contribute to medical teaching and training for trainee clinical scientists and biomedical scientists.

The appointee will assist the Head of Department and other members of the Consultant team in delivering a comprehensive, cost-effective, and high-quality Chemical Pathology service in our laboratories, compliant with ISO15189:2012 standards.

The department is actively working towards the ISO15189:2022 standard. The appointee will represent the Chemical Pathology Department at relevant Trust and Pathology meetings, contribute to service improvements, and facilitate service delivery across the department.

About us

With a new hospital planned for Watford and updates underway at St Albans City Hospital, this is an exciting time to join us. We are building on the success of our virtual hospital and re-imagining care models, working closely with partners and leveraging advances in digital healthcare. Staff wellbeing and development are priorities, as is innovation to improve clinical care, outcomes, and patient experience. Our vision is 'Excellent patient care, together,' and our values are to be empowered, compassionate, professional, and inclusive. We offer flexible working options to support work-life balance. For support regarding disabilities or long-term health conditions, contact [e-mail]. Service Leavers, Veterans, Military Reserves, Cadet Force Adults, or partners/spouses of service members should tick 'Member of the Armed Forces Community' on the application form. We reserve the right to close this advert early due to high volume of applications. Apply promptly to avoid disappointment. If you do not hear within 3 weeks, consider your application unsuccessful.

Job responsibilities

The department provides a 24/7 acute/urgent analytical service at Watford General Hospital and a Monday to Friday non-urgent service at Hemel Hempstead site.

The successful candidate will work across sites as required and participate in the out-of-hours on-call roster for clinical advice after appropriate training.

The laboratory uses Roche Cobas for chemistry, Siemens Atellica for immunochemistry, and Sebia for protein electrophoresis.

The Trust is committed to staff development and is creating a shared pathology network with colleagues across the ICS, including East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, and Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB. Health Services Laboratories (HSL) is the new provider for this shared service.

This role involves close collaboration with Consultants, Team Leaders, Quality Leads, and managers within Blood Sciences and Chemical Pathology departments.

Person Specification

Education and qualifications:

• First Degree or equivalent knowledge and expertise.
• Master's Degree or equivalent in Clinical Biochemistry.
• Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath), if required for Medical Consultant.
• Evidence of Continuing Professional Development.
• HCPC registration as a clinical scientist.
• PhD (preferred).

Knowledge:

• Thorough knowledge of human biochemistry, metabolism, physiology, pharmacology, and drug interactions.
• Basic knowledge of other Pathology areas.
• Extensive knowledge of analytical methods, quality assurance, and problem-solving.
• Ability to perform risk assessments and understand COSHH regulations.
• Knowledge of metabolic medicine, inherited disorders, endocrinology, and toxicology.
• Experience with clinical risk assessments and resolving service-related issues.
• Familiarity with NHS and professional guidelines, resource management, and procurement.
• Expertise in specialised areas such as protein electrophoresis, chromatography, or endocrinology.
• Experience with national professional committees or international groups.

Experience:

• Significant experience as a Registered Clinical Scientist at an advanced level (8A).
• Recognition as a national or international expert or adviser.
• Developed expertise in specialised analytical or clinical areas.
• Record of research, development, and audit activities, including presentations and publications.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post requires a DBS check due to the nature of the role.

West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

Address

Watford and Hemel Hempstead General Hospital