At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead toxicology and antenatal screening services, providing clinical and scientific expertise.
- Company: Join Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider with a diverse workforce.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, career development support, and a healthy work-life balance.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team in a purpose-built facility with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient care while developing your specialist skills.
- Qualifications: Must be HCPC registered with an MSc or PhD in a relevant field.
The predicted salary is between 44550 - 54450 £ per year.
North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT) and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) have merged as of 1st July 2026 to become Bristol NHS Foundation Trust. This creates an exciting future that brings together the best of both organisations. As a single, strong and sustainable organisation, we will not only be able to deliver better outcomes for our patients and fairer care for our population, but it will also provide greater opportunities for our people. Bristol NHS Foundation Trust recognises the value of a healthy work-life balance. When applying, speak to us about how we might be able to accommodate flexible working, so your work life fits around your home life. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates as they are under-represented within the Trust.
Our job adverts may close as soon as sufficient applications have been received. Considering this, if you are interested in this role, please do apply as soon as you can.
Job overview: We are looking for a highly motivated Clinical Scientist to join the Clinical Biochemistry team at Southmead Hospital, Bristol NHS Foundation Trust. This post offers the opportunity to develop specialist expertise in the areas of toxicology and antenatal screening within the Specialist and Manual Techniques section of the Clinical Biochemistry department. The post holder will also participate in the department’s general clinical validation rota and contribute to the clinical and scientific leadership of the biochemistry automated laboratory.
Applicants must be HCPC registered as a Clinical Scientist, have an MSc or PhD in an area relevant to the discipline and have completed part 1 FRCPath. A broad range of experience in Clinical Biochemistry is essential, along with good team working and leadership skills. Previous experience in Toxicology is desirable.
The Clinical Biochemistry department is part of Severn Pathology, located at Southmead Hospital in purpose-built Pathology buildings and incorporating Blood Sciences, Genetics, Infection Sciences and Cellular Pathology. Following the formation of Bristol NHS Foundation Trust we will be working closely with colleagues across the City centre and Weston to develop fully integrated pathology services within a single organisation.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities: As a Principal Clinical Scientist in Clinical Biochemistry the postholder will:
- Be responsible for the day-to-day management of scientific aspects of the toxicology and antenatal screening services (incorporating clinical and coronial toxicology, cholinesterase and antenatal screening for trisomies), ultimately responsible to the Consultant Clinical Scientist.
- Contribute to the clinical and scientific leadership of the automated clinical biochemistry service.
- Participate in the general biochemistry clinical validation rota, providing interpretation and clinical advice in general biochemistry and endocrinology, and participate in the out-of-hours on-call rota for clinical advice.
- Interpret and report toxicology results and, in conjunction with the Consultant Clinical Scientist, produce postmortem toxicology reports for pathologists and coroners.
- Take a lead role in the laboratory provision of the antenatal screening service (fetal anomaly screening program, FASP).
We hope that you will decide to join us and become part of this exciting journey, helping us to shape our future together.
Bristol NHS Foundation Trust values all people as individuals. As an equal opportunities employer actively working towards a diverse workforce we aim to recruit and retain a workforce which represents the rich diversity of the local population at all levels and are committed to designing our services around the needs of individual patients and those around them.
The Trust is committed to investing in and caring for all our staff. We will support you in maintaining and improving your health and wellbeing, as well as your career development through management and training support - developing exceptional people for exceptional careers.
Bristol NHS Foundation Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
To comply with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 all applicants must be able to speak fluent English to an appropriate standard which will be assessed at Interview.
If you require sponsorship for a visa to work in the UK, to avoid disappointment, please check to ensure you are eligible under the UKVI points based system.
Please be aware of scams – unless specified above, we will only communicate with you via @recruit.trac.jobs or nhs.net e-mails and we will never ask you for any payments.
Principal Clinical Scientist in Bristol employer: BFT
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Clinical Scientist in Bristol
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like BFT.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at BFT.
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Clinical Scientist in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at BFT.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at BFT.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to BFT. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at BFT. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at BFT
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research BFT’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
