Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Molecular Pathology

NHS; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading NHS Trust as a Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Molecular Pathology. This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic team, performing complex diagnostic tests and contributing to high-quality patient care. Candidates should possess a Specialist Diploma in Cellular Pathology and relevant experience in Histology. Flexible working arrangements and competitive benefits are available.

Benefits

27 days annual leave plus holidays

NHS Pension Scheme with 20.6% employer contribution

Blue Light card eligibility

Qualifications

• HCPC registered BMS with experience in Histology.
• Specialist Diploma in Cellular Pathology required.
• Effective communication and leadership skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex techniques (e.g., FISH, PCR) on tissue samples.
• Interpret results and produce reports for clinicians.
• Lead team to maintain high laboratory standards.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Leadership

Troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Manual dexterity

Education

HCPC registration as Biomedical Scientist

BSc in Biomedical Science or equivalent

IBMS Specialist Diploma in Cellular Pathology

Tools

Pathology systems

MS Office

Job description

Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Molecular Pathology

This post offers an opportunity to join an expanding and dynamic Molecular Pathology service within the Cellular Pathology department.

As a HCPC registered BMS, your current Histology knowledge and experience will support your development in specialist diagnostic areas, with enthusiastic team backing.

We are the designated Kent & Medway Cellular Pathology Genomic Centre. The successful candidate will join a team working in purpose-built labs in modern hospitals. Fully accredited to ISO15189:2022, we provide a broad range of specialist diagnostic and predictive tests for patients across Kent and Medway, including a digital FISH HER-2 service. The candidate will have opportunities to participate in this and other departmental services.

Applicants should hold a Specialist Diploma in Cellular Pathology, with experience in routine Histopathology including immunohistochemistry, troubleshooting, supervising, and training team members. Effective communication, motivation, and approachability are essential.

Note: Experience in routine Histology is essential. Candidates within one year of completing their diploma are encouraged to apply, pending Annex 21 approval.

Main duties of the job

1. Perform complex specialist techniques (e.g., FISH, PCR) on tissue samples, ensuring quality and validation of tests.
2. Interpret FISH results independently and produce reports for clinicians.
3. Assess FISH cases independently, escalating complex cases as needed.
4. Maintain and troubleshoot automated systems, liaising with service engineers.
5. Lead team to uphold high standards in laboratory processes, ensuring timely and accurate results.

Note: The role may attract high application numbers and could close early. Apply promptly.

About us

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust ranks among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide and was named the second-best Trust to work for in the South East in 2023.

We serve around 600,000 residents in West Kent and East Sussex, with a staff of over 8,000. We offer specialised cancer services to over two million people via the Kent Oncology Centre.

Fordcombe Hospital, part of the Trust since October 2024, offers planned care, diagnostic services, and consultation rooms.

Flexible working

We support flexible working arrangements. Discuss your needs with us to find suitable solutions.

Benefits include:

• At least 27 days annual leave plus holidays (pro-rata).
• NHS Pension Scheme membership with 20.6% employer contribution and life assurance.
• Blue Light card eligibility.
• Additional benefits detailed in our benefits documents.

Job responsibilities

Review the person specification and provide examples demonstrating your suitability. Check your application carefully before submission.

Appointment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check at Standard Level. All successful applicants will complete our trust induction.

Work within the Kent and Medway Pathology Network, comprising seven laboratories across three services in four Trusts.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• HCPC registration as Biomedical Scientist, BSc in Biomedical Science or equivalent, or IBMS Specialist Diploma in Cellular Pathology.
• IBMS certificates of extended or expert practice.
• Membership (MIBMS) or FIBMS.
• Oncology experience in molecular pathology.

Experience/Knowledge

• Experience at AFC Band 5 or equivalent in Histology/Molecular Pathology.
• Experience in immunohistochemistry.
• Understanding of laboratory accreditation.
• Active CPD record.
• Supervisory or leadership experience.
• Specialist knowledge of Histology techniques.
• Understanding of H&S requirements.
• Experience with molecular techniques.

Skills

• Ability to analyze complex information and draw conclusions.
• Organizational skills, ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Leadership in managing and prioritizing laboratory work.
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Decision-making and escalation skills.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal, email).
• Supervisory and teaching abilities.
• Responsibility acceptance.
• Multitasking and quick learning.
• Teamwork and independence.
• Manual dexterity.
• Proficiency with pathology systems and MS Office.
• Ability to review and write SOPs and conduct audits.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This role requires a DBS check at Standard Level, in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.

Salary: £37,338 to £44,962 per annum, pro-rata.