Senior Biomedical Scientist - Cellular Pathology

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust; Chichester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent NHS Trust in Chichester seeks a Senior Specialist Biomedical Scientist to manage complex investigations and uphold laboratory quality standards. The role requires advanced knowledge of cellular pathology, team leadership skills, and compliance with UKAS ISO 15189. Candidates must be HCPC-registered. Flexible working options are available. This Trust is committed to equality and accessibility in hiring and welcomes applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Commitment to equality and accessibility

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in supporting staff and maintaining quality standards.
• Capable of leading a team with a commitment to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct complex investigations to aid diagnosis and treatment.
• Manage day-to-day operations of allocated laboratory sections.
• Act as the departmental Quality Lead ensuring compliance.

Skills

Advanced scientific knowledge of cellular pathology

Experience in training and supervising staff

Knowledge of UKAS ISO 15189 requirements

Ability to lead a team

Education

Senior Specialist HCPC-Registered Biomedical Scientist

Job description

Overview

The Cellular Pathology Laboratory at the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust processes approximately 35,000 – 40,000 histology specimens across West Sussex, including St Richards Hospital in Chichester and Worthing Hospital. The department performs routine histology, immunocytochemistry (ICC), special stains, non‑gynae diagnostic cytology, preparation for molecular testing, and is implementing digital pathology using Hamamatsu scanners and Sectra PACS.

Key Responsibilities

As a Senior Specialist Biomedical Scientist the post holder will:

• Undertake complex investigations, including manual, semi‑automated and automated techniques, to support diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
• Maintain professional registration and personal continuing professional development, and participate in training other staff.
• Act as the departmental Quality Lead, ensuring compliance with UKAS ISO 15189 and supporting continuous quality improvement.
• Provide day‑to‑day management of allocated sections (Cut Up/biopsy transfer, frozen sections, embedding, microtomy, special stains, ICC and QC) under the direction of the Lead / Deputy Head / Head BMS.
• Practice as a Senior Specialist HCPC‑Registered BMS and consistently deliver a high‑quality service.

Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced scientific knowledge of cellular pathology, with extensive experience supporting staff, training, development and supervision.
• Comprehensive awareness of UKAS ISO 15189 requirements and the UK’s accreditation journey.
• Senior Specialist HCPC‑Registered Biomedical Scientist, capable of leading a team and upholding the Laboratory’s quality standards.

Additional Information

• We strongly discourage the use of AI tools in completing your application – applications that rely heavily on AI‑generated content may be rejected.
• Flexible working options are available. Speak with the recruiting or line manager to explore possibilities.
• All new employees are subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where the role is eligible for a criminal record check.
• Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for roles that meet the visa criteria.
• UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications.
• We are an equal‑opportunity employer. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran‑Aware Trust.
• As part of our commitment to accessibility, please see the different ways you can access the application form: https://apps.trac.jobs/accessibility?_ts=1.
• See attached Job description and person specification.