Locum Biomedical Scientist

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

Job summary

A healthcare organization in Dorchester is seeking a Locum Biomedical Scientist for a 6-month full-time position. The role involves assistance in a histopathology lab, focusing on embedding and microtomy tasks. Applicants should possess a degree in Biomedical Sciences and be HCPC-registered. Strong lab experience and flexibility in working hours are essential. The organization offers competitive rates and promotes skill development in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive locum rates

Flexible working arrangements

Supportive team environment

Exposure to a well-equipped lab

Qualifications

• Previous laboratory experience is essential.
• Proficient use of embedding and microtomy instruments is necessary.
• Ability to adapt and work flexible hours based on workload.

Responsibilities

• Assist biomedical scientists and histopathologists in the lab.
• Perform embedding of tissue samples and maintain equipment.
• Conduct clerical duties like filing and stock checks.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Embedding and microtomy instruments

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Flexibility

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Biomedical Sciences or equivalent

HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientist

Tools

LIMS system

Job description

Job Summary

We currently have posts available for a Locum Biomedical Scientist 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.

What We Offer

• Competitive locum rates.
• Flexible working arrangements depending on service need.
• Supportive team environment with opportunities to broaden skills.
• Exposure to a well-equipped histopathology laboratory.

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

Main Duties

• 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 immunohistochemistry cases on all PCI platforms.

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&ISK.

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.

Details

• Date posted: 08 December 2025
• Pay scheme: Agenda for change
• Band: Band 6
• Salary: Depending on experience
• Contract: Locum
• Duration: 6 months
• Working pattern: Full‑time
• Reference number: E0061‑25‑0005
• Job locations: Newborough House, 3 Queen Mother Square, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 3BJ

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 Experience

• Previous experience using a LIMS system.

Qualifications

• Essential: Degree in Biomedical Sciences, or equivalent.
• Essential: HCPC‑registered Biomedical Scientist (or eligibility for registration).

Desirable Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of histology and routine diagnostic techniques.

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

Employer name: Poundbury Cancer Institute

Address: Newborough House, 3 Queen Mother Square, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 3BJ

Employer's website: https://www.poundburycancerinstitute.org/