Job summary

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced person to join our strong team of 84 staff in Cellular Pathology in this newly created role as Senior Expert Practitioner Specimen Dissection.

As an Expert Practitioner in Histological Specimen Dissection you will be responsible for supervising and performing a wide range of complex scientific procedures which result in interpretation of biological samples that contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of diseases and the investigation of other pathological processes.

You will be responsible, jointly with the consultant pathologists for dissecting specimens that fall into A, B, and C categories. Training will be provided if required to achieve competency in all specimen types. Participation in sampling of fresh tissue for research and trials may also be required.

Main duties of the job

You will be responsible for supporting the day-to-day operation of histological dissection with the Chief BMS, and will have in depth scientific knowledge of that discipline. You will liaise with the Associate Healthcare Scientists in specimen reception and dissection to ensure a timely workflow through the dissection area. You will also be responsible for overseeing the work carried out by a team of technical staff to deliver a fit for purpose medical laboratory service, including less experienced dissection staff.

You will be required to train Biomedical Scientific staff to undertake specimen dissection competently to meet the needs of the service requirements and turnaround times. You will be directly involved with the development and review of Standard Operating Procedures within your designated area. You will also undertake analytical, technical and administrative troubleshooting to ensure reliable service delivery.

You will provide expert advice and opinion to colleagues both inside and outside the department as and when necessary, and participate in research when requested.

About us

We are one of the largest hospital trusts in England, with five hospitals and community clinics serving a local population of around 800,000 people. Our vision is 'great healthcare from great people'. Everything we do is guided by our values: 'People feel cared for, safe, respected and confident that we are making a difference'. We have a new way of working at East Kent Hospitals, called 'We care'. It's about empowering frontline staff to lead improvements day-to-day. We're looking for compassionate people to be part of our improvement journey for the patients, families and carers we care for every day.

Applications for this role should be written by the applicant. If artificial intelligence (AI) programmes are used then the application may be rejected due to this document being an important part of the assessment process. This does not prevent applicants seeking appropriate support with applications should they need to for the purposes of any declared disability.

Job description

Job responsibilities

Please scroll down to access the full Job Description and Person Specification located in 'supporting documents. If you have further queries please dont hesitate to contact the line manager using the contact details below.

Person Specification

Qualifications and training

Essential

M level (Level 7) qualification in a relevant subject, 120 credits in a postgraduate qualification(s) in relevant professional subjects, or equivalent. IBMS Diploma of Expert Practice in Histological or equivalent qualification via the Scientist Training Programme (STP) with single specialism in Histopathology and associated experience of specimen dissection in categories A-C. HCPC Registration.

Desirable

Two years post EP diploma experience in malignant sample dissection.

Clinical skills and experience

Essential

Excellent leadership and communication skills. Awareness of local and national legislation and policies relating to relevant aspects of histopathology and pathology. Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing with all grades of staff in a professional manner. Good time management skills and the ability to prioritise efficiently. Good presentation skills. Advanced Computer Literacy. Extensive experience dissecting and block sampling specimens categorised as types A-C by RCPath. Proven experience of working to changing deadlines and situations. Experience of undertaking audits, EQA, IQA, and IQC. Proven experience supervising, training and managing staff.

Desirable

European computer driving licence (ECDL).

Personal & professional attributes

Essential

Understanding and application of Quality assurance and control principles. Expert knowledge of physiology and pathology of disease, associated with cellular pathology. Clear understanding of RCPath data sets. Good understanding of UKAS ISO:15189:2012 accreditation standards in relation to designated section. Good understanding of Health and Safety requirements and risk assessments. Knowledge of current specialised analytical techniques and instrumentation.

Other requirements

Essential

To be aware of and adhere to the Trust's Vision, Mission and Values.