B8b Principal Clinical Scientist​/Section Lead - Molecular Pathology

Overview

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The closing date is 15 February 2026

An exciting opportunity has arisen for permanent Band 8B Senior Principal Clinical Scientist / Section Lead to join the Molecular Pathology Diagnostic Service (MPDS) located in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. MPDS is one of the largest solid tumour genetic-profiling centres in Europe, processing over 25,000 samples a year. The service provides a range of molecular pathology tests including protein expression, gene mutation, methylation and amplification, and chromosome translocation.

The service also provides a circulating tumour DNA service for EGFR mutation analysis. Services are provided for wide range of regional and supra-regional Trusts, being a referral centre, and as such there will be an opportunity to also participate in research and development.

The department has huge expertise in various technologies including real time PCR, Pyrosequencing, FISH, Immunohistochemistry and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). The post holder will be joining a dedicated team including Scientists, Technicians, and Molecular Pathologists. The laboratory is UKAS accredited to ISO 15189 standards and IBMS accredited for training. We support Continuous Professional Development. Encouragement is given to attend and participate in both internal and external lectures / seminars.

The post provides an excellent opportunity for a highly skilled individual to build on the success of the department and to develop new collaborations. The post holder will be responsible for the scientific leadership of the NGS section of the department, overseeing that element of the service along with the day to day provision of scientific support to the NGS team and scientific advice to service users.

The post holder will hold responsibility for the continued development and improvement of the NGS section. The strong relationships the department has with oncologists, academia and industry provide opportunities for developing research activities and lecturing/teaching initiatives. The position will involve a significant reporting role.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual, with a good range of clinical and scientific skills, who is keen to contribute to the continued success of the service. Candidates should be able to demonstrate significant scientific ability, experience that is applicable to the area of molecular pathology, proven service development, and an aptitude for team leadership and motivation. Previous experience of authorising NGS results, alongside somatic and germline variant interpretation, is desirable.

Applicants must hold HCPC registration for Clinical Scientists and FRCPATH part 1 by examination.

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust strives to have an inclusive culture where everyone feels like they belong, can thrive, knows that they add value and feels valued. We do this by developing compassionate and culturally competent leaders, being values driven in all that we do and by creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace that thrives on the diversity of our people.

As such we want to attract and recruit talented individuals from all backgrounds, and for each of you to feel supported for the diversity you bring, to achieve your full potential. For those staff with a disability, including physical disability, long term health condition, mental health or neurodiverse condition, this also means being committed to making reasonable adjustments needed for you to carry out your role.

Please note for a specific detailed job description for this vacancy please see attached job description.

• First or second-class honours degree in biology or a biomedical subject OR equivalent qualifications
• MSc in Cancer, Genomics or relevant related area, or assessed equivalent knowledge and expertise
• State registration as a Clinical Scientist with the Healthcare Professions Council (HCPC).
• Evidence of continuing professional development and proficiency in accordance with HCPC guidelines
• FRCPath Part 1 (by examination) and evidence of working towards completion of Part 2
• PhD
• FRCPath

• Broad experience of diagnostic Genetics
• Experience of UKAS ISO
  15189 assessment processes
• Significant experience in managing and leading a major section of diagnostic genetics laboratory
• Experience of preparing and authorising clinical laboratory genetics reports of a complex nature
• Experience of delivering training to departmental staff and other healthcare professionals
• Completion of relevant management courses e.g. appraisals, recruitment and selection
• Expertise in Cancer Genomics including participation in clinical trials.

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…