Trainee Clinical Perfusion Scientist

Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust; Greater London; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare institution in Greater London seeks a highly motivated trainee Clinical Perfusionist to join the Royal Brompton Hospital team. This two-year clinical training program involves studying for an MSc in Clinical Perfusion at Bristol University. Responsibilities include preparing cardiopulmonary bypass circuits and implementing patient-specific perfusion strategies. Candidates should have a minimum 2:1 at BSc level in biological sciences and demonstrate excellent communication and teamwork skills. This position offers an opportunity for accreditation and professional development.

Qualifications

• Candidates should have a minimum grade of 2:1 at BSc level in an appropriate biological science.
• Good communication skills and ability to work well within a team.
• Previous experience of working in a hospital or theatre environment is desirable but not necessary.

Responsibilities

• Preparation of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit under sterile conditions.
• Select appropriate disposables and hardware based on patient needs.
• Competently perform Intra Aortic Balloon Counter Pulsation therapy.

Skills

Good communication skills

Teamwork abilities

Education

Minimum 2:1 at BSc level in appropriate biological science

Job description

Overview

A Vacancy at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic trainee to join our existing team at the Royal Brompton Hospital. The successful candidate will enter our two year clinical training program where they will be trained to deliver a wide range of perfusion techniques. The appointee may be required to undertake a portion of their training on the other two sites of the Trust, Harefield Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital sites. As part of your training you will be required to study towards an MSc in Clinical Perfusion at Bristol University and all job offers will be subject to eligibility to enrol on this course. Upon successful completion of the MSc and our clinical training program, you will be required to undertake the Society of Clinical Perfusion Scientists practical exam leading to accreditation with the Society and professional registration with the College of Clinical Perfusion Scientists of Great Britain and Ireland.

Candidates should have a minimum grade of 2:1 at BSc level in an appropriate biological science, have good communication skills and be able to demonstrate the ability to work well within a team. Previous experience of working in a hospital or theatre environment would be desirable but is not necessary. Successful completion of the MSc, together with the award of accreditation from the SCPC and completion of the agreed competency framework, will result in automatic promotion to Agenda for Change (AfC) Band 7.

Job summary

• As a trainee Clinical Perfusionist you will be part of a dynamic team providing extra corporeal circulation to all patients having cardiac surgery.
• The post holder will be trained to carry out Clinical Perfusion under direct supervision.
• Primarily based at the RBH.
• Training will be given to achieve accreditation with the College of Clinical Perfusion Scientists.
• College attendance at Bristol University to gain an MSc in Perfusion.

Our vision

Our vision is to be the leading national and international centre for treating heart and lung disease, developing services through research and clinical practice to improve the health of people across the world.

In order to achieve this vision we aim to:

1. Provide specialist and sub-specialist expertise and clinical care for our patients
2. Undertake pioneering and world-class research into heart and lung disease in order to develop new forms of treatment which can be applied across the NHS and beyond
3. Recruit, train and develop tomorrow’s international clinical leaders and expert
4. Develop and continuously improve responsive service models in partnership with our patients, carers, partner organisations and the public
5. Generate surpluses to invest in new technologies and services.

We are supported in this by active patient and community groups who enthusiastically encourage and challenge us to deliver our goals.

Main tasks & responsibilities

• Clinical:
• Preparation of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit under sterile conditions for use.
• Select the appropriate disposables and hardware according to the needs of the patient and surgical preferences. This may involve manual handling of heavy equipment.
• Implement a perfusion strategy for an individual patient based on the pre assessment of the patient records and discussion with the relevant medical groups. This will involve close working relationships with staff in a stressful working environment.
• Competently perform Intra Aortic Balloon Counter Pulsation therapy in all areas of the hospital.
• Ensure that stock levels are maintained at all times.
• Ensure all equipment is maintained and decontaminated to the department standard.
• Be proactive in the blood conservation programme following the better transfusion policy, by providing cell salvage to all patients.
• Administer blood transfusions following the better blood transfusion policy.
• Offer a blood management service to all specialties including sealants and gels.
• Assist with the provision of a specialist ECMO service to patients and other multi-disciplinary teams including initial assembly and technical support throughout the ECMO period.
• To be responsible for patient parameters whilst on cardiopulmonary bypass with the administration of drugs within set guidelines.
• Familiar with all emergency procedures for equipment failure and act according to the department procedures, ensuring patient safety.
• Maintain accurate real time patient records with hard copies correctly stored.
• To perform quality assurance procedures and checks. Taking the appropriate action in the event of failure.
• Accurately complete the data set requirements for the Trust.

This advert closes on Wednesday 28 Jan 2026