Consultant - Ophthalmology

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran is one of 14 territorial NHS Boards within NHS Scotland. In support of our core purpose of Working together to achieve the healthiest life possible for everyone in Ayrshire and Arran, we are committed to a culture that is Caring, Safe, and Respectful. You will be required to work collaboratively in a safe, caring and respectful way.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Consultant Ophthalmologist with a sub Speciality interest in Cornea based at University Hospital Ayr
. This post is offered on a permanent basis.

40 hours per week. From 1 April 2026, the working week for NHS Agenda for Change staff in Scotland will be reduced. Full‑time hours will reduce from 37 to 36 hours (pro rata for part‑time staff) without loss of earnings.

A UK driving licence is essential for this role.

The successful candidate will become part of a team of 11 Consultant Ophthalmologists, 1 Associate Specialist, 5 Specialty Doctors, 2 trainees and one research/teaching fellow. The department currently has skills and expertise across the range of sub‑specialties within ophthalmology. NHS Ayrshire and Arran has consultants in post covering the full range of sub‑specialism. The service is looking to recruit a consultant with a sub specialty interest in cornea.

The department provides ophthalmic healthcare on an area basis for a population of approximately 375,000. The Ophthalmology Department is based at University Hospital Ayr where adult inpatient and day surgery facilities are situated. Paediatric inpatient and day surgery is provided on the Crosshouse Hospital site. Outpatient services are provided at University Hospital Ayr, University Hospital Crosshouse in Kilmarnock and the War Memorial Hospital in Lamlash, Isle of Arran.

The Terms and Conditions of service are those determined by the New Consultant Contract (Scotland) 2004 and are offered on a 10 programmed activity basis. Applications from individuals who wish to work fewer or more programmed activities may apply. On call will be on a 1:9 basis. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 21st April 2026.

Appropriately experienced candidates will hold Full GMC Registration with a current Licence to Practice. Supporting documentary evidence of your entry onto the Specialist Register/CCT date or equivalent training experience is required.

To work in the United Kingdom, there is a legal requirement for an individual to demonstrate that they have the relevant permission to work in the country. This permission is, without exception, granted by the UK Visa and Immigration Service. Further information on the responsibilities and requirements can be found within the Candidate Information Pack. It is essential that you have checked that you either already have an appropriate right to work in the UK or that the post would be eligible to be sponsored before submitting your application.

NHS Ayrshire & Arran may be able to offer visa sponsorship for certain roles, provided the post meets the minimum salary threshold and any other required criteria. Sponsorship is not guaranteed and is assessed on a case‑by‑case basis following interview and at the commencement of pre‑employment checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for Band 2 posts or bank contracts.

For further information on the role, please contact Dr Mohan Varikkara, Clinical Director in Ophthalmology. Email:
Mohan Phone:

• You should apply for this post by completing the application process on NHS Jobs Scotland.
• DO NOT upload a CV as this will not be used for shortlisting purposes.
• Posts close at midnight on the indicated date. Late applications will not be accepted.
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