Healthcare Science Associate Practitioner

The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is inviting applications for Healthcare Science Associate Practitioner (HCSAP) in the Cellular Pathology department at the Royal Victoria Infirmary. The role supports the delivery of high-quality diagnostic services and involves the receipt and preparation of tissue and fluid specimens for microscopic analysis.

Based in the slide production area, the post offers opportunities to rotate into Histology, Diagnostic Cytology, Neuropathology and

Qualifications

• Experience in histological techniques.
• Ability to handle a wide range of pathology specimens.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and team-focused.

Responsibilities

• Receipt and preparation of tissue and fluid samples for microscopic analysis.
• Involvement in microtomy, embedding and staining workflows.
• Assist with equipment maintenance and preparation for genetic analysis where required.
• Support Registered and Specialist Biomedical Scientists and rotate across department sections.

Job description

The Cellular Pathology department within the Royal Victoria Infirmary have exciting opportunities for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team as Healthcare Science Associate Practitioner (HCSAP). The Healthcare Science Associate Practitioner (HCSAP) plays a key role within the Cellular Pathology department, supporting the delivery of high quality diagnostic services for patients. Working as part of a busy, multidisciplinary laboratory team, the post holder will assist with the receipt, processing, and preparation of tissue and cellular specimens for microscopic and molecular analysis. This role requires accuracy, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining a safe, efficient, and patient focused service Our service is one of the largest in the country and includes Histology, Diagnostic Cytology, Neuropathology, Research and Innovation laboratories, as well as Mortuary Services. We are a recognised specialist centre and receive a high volume of referrals, this is also an excellent opportunity for experienced HCSAPs to build and expand their current skill set.

Job Details

• Interview Date Friday 30 October 2026
• 37 Hours 30 Minutes/Week

The post involves the receipt and preparation of tissue and fluid samples for microscopic analysis, including microtomy, embedding, staining, equipment maintenance and preparation for genetic analysis. This role is based in the slide production area of the department. Candidates must be comfortable handling a wide range of pathology specimens as part of routine laboratory work. Applicants should be enthusiastic, well motivated individuals with experience in histological techniques and a good understanding of the role of Cellular Pathology in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. They should enjoy working as part of a team and possess keyboard skills, excellent communication abilities and flexibility to support service needs. Shift patterns are 7.5 hours Monday to Friday between the laboratory opening hours of 7am-6pm, with participation in a Saturday rota. Flexibility is strongly encouraged to support staff and service demands. We offer training opportunities to all grades of staff in a supportive and modern environment. The post is primarily to support Registered and Specialist Biomedical Scientists within the laboratory, with opportunities to rotate into different sections of the department.

Location / Services

• Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI)
• Freeman Hospital
• Newcastle Dental Hospital
• Cramlington Manor Walks
• Urgent treatment centres
• Newcastle Fertility Centre
• Northern Centre for Cancer Care, North Cumbria
• Northern Genetics Service

These include a range of flagship services which deliver cutting-off care (supported by state-of-the-art diagnostic services in both radiology and pathology) and are a catalyst for innovation to support pioneering clinical practice in the NHS. We also have offices at Regent Point in Gosforth and community sites.