Job overview

The Histology department receives, examines and reports upon a wide range of diagnostic tissue samples. These vary widely in terms of size and complexity. The appropriate examination, dissection and sampling of such samples is essential to accurate and timely diagnosis, particularly as many of these will be cancer cases.

Due to the complex nature of this task an advanced understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathology is necessary. In addition to these academic requirements a high degree practical skill and experience is essential. An understanding of the distinction between normal variation in tissue and pathological disease is essential so that incidental or unexpected findings of disease can be correctly identified and sampled.

Applicants that do not meet the full essential criteria may be considered for Annex 21 developmental role, where full support to complete the necessary criteria will be given.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will hold and maintain professional registration with the Health Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist (BMS). They will fulfil their dissection duties in accordance with RCPath guidelines and will be required to perform dissection of histological tissue samples, under the supervision of a Consultant Pathologist.

They will exercise autonomy within professional and managerial boundaries and will be required to verify and validate completed work. Because they will be undertaking dissection duties under local agreement it is essential the post holder demonstrates, and maintains, continuing competence through a system of ongoing review which will be overseen by Consultant Histopathologists.

Working for our organisation

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust ranks among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide and was named the second-best Trust to work for in the South East in the 2023 NHS Staff Survey.

We are a large acute hospital trust in south-east England, providing general hospital services and specialist care to around 600,000 residents in West Kent and East Sussex. With a dedicated and diverse team of over 8,000 staff we are proud to offer specialised cancer services to over two million people through the Kent Oncology Centre.

Fordcombe Hospital, near Tunbridge Wells, became part of the Trust in October 2024. Specialising in planned care, it offers two operating theatres, 28 inpatient and day-care beds, diagnostic services (X-ray, MRI, CT, and endoscopy), and consultation/treatment rooms.

Looking for flexible working?

We are a flexible working-friendly organisation. Whether it’s adjusting your hours or exploring other flexible arrangements, we want to work with you to find the best solution for you, our patients, and the Trust. Talk to us about how we can accommodate your working needs.

Joining us includes a comprehensive benefits package:

•    At least 27 days of annual leave plus public/bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time staff).
•    Membership in the NHS Pension Scheme, with a 20.6% employer contribution and life assurance benefits
•    Blue Light card eligibility
•    And more, additional benefits can be found in the benefits documents below