Job summary
We are looking to appoint a full-time, HCPC-registered Senior Biomedical Scientist in the Histology Department at Southmead Hospital.

Applications are invited from enthusiastic, adaptable individuals who would enjoy working as part of a friendly team in this busy department.

Histology training is an essential pre-requisite. The successful candidate must have completed the IBMS Specialist Diploma in Cellular Pathology, or equivalent and hold a DEP in Histology Dissection.

The ideal candidate will be organised, keen to learn and reliable. They must be able to work effectively as part of team, as well as being able to work independently. Excellent communication skills are required and the candidate must have attention to detail. Knowledge of ISO:15189 would be an advantage.

Main duties of the job

• Undertake independent dissection and sampling of samples received for histopathology across a range of categories.
• Working as part of a team, help to provide a core, routine diagnostic laboratory service in Cellular Pathology (Histology) in accordance with national and professional standards.
• With other senior staff, participate in the supervision, training and development of staff in the department with a particular focus on dissection, including appraisals and absence management.
• Act as a positive role model and visible leader within the department.
• Support the cut up supervisor in the leadership of the day-to-day running of specimen reception and cut-up to ensure an efficient and effective workflow, working towards helping the department to deliver key performance indicators including turn around times.

About us
Bristol NHS Foundation Trust brings together more than 28,000 staff to deliver over 160 clinical services across thirteen hospital locations, operating from three main sites at Southmead, Bristol city centre and Weston.

With an annual turnover of 2.6 billion, we are now one of the largest NHS trusts in the United Kingdom.

Details
Date posted: 30 October 2026
Pay scheme: Agenda for change
Band: Band 7
Salary: £49,387 to £56,515 a year per annum, pro rata for part time roles
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time, Part-time
Reference number: 339-CCS6124-BAL
Closing date: 10 November 2026

Job responsibilities

• Contribute to discussions of workflow patterns and methodology
• Ensure the efficient and safe use of consumables and equipment within the working area
• To be responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and cleanliness of laboratory equipment.
• Be responsible for resource management within their section, in particular: ensuring adequate supplies of equipment, materials and reagents; initiating the requisitioning of supplies; prioritising work; ensure outputs of section meet appropriate standards; troubleshooting problems that occur
• Participate in evaluation of new methods and equipment
• Work according to the regulations and codes of practice governing aspects of Health and Safety relevant to the department.
• Assist in research and development projects

Essential qualifications and experience

• HCPC Registration Biomedical Sciences
• Postgraduate level qualification in Cellular Pathology equivalent to Fellowship of the Institute of Biomedical Sciences or MSc or documented equivalent experience and competence
• Evidence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and ongoing training in Cellular Pathology
• Degree or equivalent in Biomedical Sciences
• High level of theoretical and practical knowledge of Histological techniques and their clinical applications
• Extensive theoretical knowledge and practical experience of histopathology techniques to include immunocytochemistry and enzyme histochemistry
• Knowledge of Health and Safety legislation and practice applicable to laboratories
• Good IT skills and knowledge of MS programs
• Able to work to SOPs
• Able to troubleshoot failures of laboratory equipment and procedures
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to work in an accurate and timely manner with a high level of concentration
• Able to provide judgement on a wide range of complex laboratory issues
• Highly organised
• Able to work effectively as part of a team, and independently

Desirable

• Management or supervisory qualification or training
• Hold the IBMS Diploma of Expert Practice in Immunohistochemistry or be working towards this award
• Experience of working in an NHS Cellular Pathology Laboratory, with specific experience in immunocytochemistry and special stains
• Experience of organising, training, supervising and mentoring of junior staff
• Extensive knowledge of quality management and experience in BSN: EN ISO15189:2012
• Experience of Neuropathological Techniques
• Knowledge of departments IT system

Employer details
Employer name: Bristol NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Cellular Pathology, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, BS10 5NB, United Kingdom
Contact: Simon Florio, Operations Manager for Cellular Pathology, Simon.Florio@nbt.nhs.uk, 01174149875

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome. Applicants must have current UK professional registration. Apply through our website.