Closing date is 21 July 2026

Job summary
We are looking for a qualified advanced Biomedical Scientist to lead the reporting of diagnostic cytology specimens.

You will hold the IBMS DEP or ASD in Diagnostic Cytopathology and have experience of screening and reporting on a range of diagnostic specimens, including FNA specimens.

The range of specimens that can be reported will be dependent on the qualification held and may include reporting both positive and negative samples.

Main duties of the job
The post holder will screen, report and authorise non-gynaecological cytology specimens from urinary, respiratory and serous fluid systems and where appropriate FNA specimens. The level of reporting will be dependent on the qualification that you hold. If you hold the ASD in Diagnostic Cytopathology, you will be reporting out positives as well as negatives.

You will also participate in provision of rapid onsite assessment of adequacy in relevant FNA clinics held within the Trust.

You will be responsible for the day-to-day organisation, maintenance and workflow and any other responsibilities associated with the section. In addition you will be responsible for teaching and the development of staff and maintaining at all times the required high standard and quality of current working practices.

About us
Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (GHFT) provides acute hospital services from two large district general hospitals, Cheltenham General Hospital (CGH) and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital (GRH).

We take pride in placing people at the centre of everything we do, working together as a united team. Driven by a shared ambition to continually grow, develop, and learn, we recognise and value every contribution. By combining our experience and skills, we not only support our vibrant, diverse communities, but also support one another.With a team of over 9,000 employees, we are proud to be the largest employer in Gloucestershire and rank among the top 10 largest Trusts in the South West region. By joining our Trust, you will benefit from an excellent package that includes exclusive benefits, flexible working opportunities and the chance to gain valuable experience in one or both of our innovative hospitals.

GHFT Pathology sits within the Diagnostics and Specialties Division and its services are critical in supporting the delivery of a high-quality, first-class clinical service that can meet the demand and needs of the acute Trust and our One Gloucestershire partners, South Worcestershire Primary care, private healthcare providers and other out of county NHS healthcare organisations.

The Cellular Pathology Department is based at Cheltenham General Hospital and receives around 48,000 request per year, of which around 3000 are diagnostic cytology

Details

• Date posted: 07 July 2026
• Pay scheme: Agenda for change
• Band: Band 8a
• Salary: £57,528 to £64,750 a year (pa pro rata if part-time)
• Contract: Permanent
• Working pattern: Full-time
• Reference number: 318-26-T0457
• Job locations: Cheltenham General Hospital, Cheltenham, GL53 7AN, United Kingdom

Job description
Job responsibilities

• To report at Consultant level by evaluating, reporting and authorising negative and positive non-gynae samples from urinary, respiratory and serous fluid systems, and FNA specimens. The level of reporting will be dependent on the qualification held.
• To perform primary screening of all other non gynae cytology samples, prior to Consultant reporting and authorisation.
• To participate in the Rapid On Site Assessment clinic.
• To participate in training of biomedical scientists and junior medical staff (one to one and group sessions.)
• To offer expert professional advice on the sampling and interpretation of specimens from urinary, respiratory and serous fluid systems.
• To liaise with Consultant colleagues within pathology and clinical staff delivering patient care.
• Attend MDTs as appropriate.
• Write and update accordingly, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the department.
• Establish internal quality standards and that appropriate corrective measures are taken to ensure standards are maintained.
• Be conversant with the departments participation in external QA schemes and ensure prompt return of QA material and take appropriate measures as necessary to ensure standards are maintained.

Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
• HCPC registration
• MSc Biomedical Science (or equivalent)
• IBMS DEP Diagnostic Cytopathology

Desirable

• IBMS ASD Diagnostic Cytopathology

Knowledge and skills
Essential

• Detailed knowledge of theoretical and practical procedures for diagnostic cytology
• Experience of Laboratory information systems

Clinical/Experience
Essential

• Experience in diagnostic cytology preparation techniques
• Experience in screening of diagnostic cytology specimens
• Experience in reporting of diagnostic cytology specimens
• Experience of teaching and training

Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details
Employer name: Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Cheltenham General Hospital, Cheltenham, GL53 7AN, United Kingdom
Employer's website: Apply through our website

Employer contact details
For questions about the job, contact: Cellular Pathology Laboratory Manager, Andrew Usher, andrew.usher1@nhs.net, 03004224400