Principal Clinical Scientist (Biochemist)

NHS Borders; Scotland; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Scotland seeks a Principal Clinical Scientist to oversee the biochemistry laboratory. The ideal candidate will engage in service development, conduct clinical liaison, and participate in the research environment. An MSc in Clinical Biochemistry and HCPC registration are essential. This role offers competitive opportunities in a beautiful rural setting with modern facilities.

Qualifications

• Must be HCPC registered as a Clinical Scientist.
• Hold Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists.
• MSc or equivalent in Clinical Biochemistry required.

Responsibilities

• Participate in all aspects of biochemistry service.
• Participate in duty biochemist rota and clinical liaison.
• Management, research, and development responsibilities.

Skills

HCPC registration as a Clinical Scientist

Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists

MSc or equivalent in Clinical Biochemistry

Proven scientific and professional record

Education

MSc in Clinical Biochemistry

Tools

Abbott automated analysers

HM-Jack qFIT

Sebia CZE and gel electrophoresis equipment

TOSOH HPLC for HbA1c

Job description

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Principal Clinical Scientist (Biochemist), Scottish Borders

Client:

NHS Borders

Location:

Scottish Borders, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Reference:

732c78f9dffc

Job Views:

5

Posted:

12.08.2025

Expiry Date:

26.09.2025

Job Description:

OUR VALUES IN ACTION

●Care and Compassion ●Quality and Teamwork ●Dignity and Respect ●Openness, honesty and responsibility

BIOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY

Applications are invited for a permanent full-time Principal Clinical Biochemist at NHS Borders area laboratory. There is currently a single-handed Consultant Clinical Biochemist within the department, supported by colleagues within neighbouring NHS Lothian.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and dynamic individual with a broad general background who can make a strong contribution to service developments at a time of challenge for laboratory diagnostic services nationally. You will participate in all aspects of the service including duty biochemist rota, clinical liaison, department management, research and development, teaching, audit, and potentially out-of-hours cover.

The department provides a comprehensive DGH biochemistry service. Routine biochemistry and immunoassay are run using Abbott automated analysers. The department has automated ELISA for faecal and immunology testing, HM-Jack qFIT, Sebia CZE and gel electrophoresis equipment, TOSOH HPLC for HbA1c.

The laboratory is undergoing significant change, with new IT infrastructure in June 2025, transition to ISO 15189 2022 expected in October 2025, and implementation of a managed equipment service contract in August 2026.

You will work under the direction of the Consultant Biochemist, Head of Department. The successful applicant will be supported in their development and encouraged to take on appropriate responsibilities within the laboratory.

You must be HCPC registered as a Clinical Scientist, hold Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists, have an MSc or equivalent in Clinical Biochemistry, and have a proven scientific and professional record.

Borders General Hospital, located in Melrose, is a modern acute hospital serving the rural Borders area in Southeast Scotland. It offers scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and is close to Edinburgh. The region offers affordable housing, good transport links, attractive amenities, excellent schools, and reasonable housing costs.

INTERVIEW: In-person interviews will be held the week commencing 15th September 2025.

Note: Due to legislative changes from 1 April 2025, this post may require a different level of criminal records check. If the post is a "regulated role," your appointment will be subject to joining the PVG Scheme. Further details will be confirmed. For more information, visit GOV.UK.

In the UK, you must demonstrate the right to work. NHS Scotland will check your entitlement as part of pre-employment screening. This can be evidenced through visas or EU settled/pre-settled status. Sponsorship may be possible via a UK Skilled Worker/Health & Care Worker Visa if the employer is a licensed sponsor and salary thresholds are met. Ensure you have the right to work in the UK before applying.