Trust Doctor StR Higher Glaucoma Clinical Fellow
NHS Medical & Dental: Senior Clinical Fellow
Main area Glaucoma Grade NHS Medical & Dental: Senior Clinical Fellow Contract 12 months (Fixed Term) Hours Full time - 40 hours per week Job ref 216-G3-OPH8391016
Site Royal Eye Infirmary Town Plymouth Salary £77,348 Per annum Salary period Yearly Closing 24/11/2026 08:00
Job overview
An excellent opportunity has arisen for the post of Glaucoma Clinical Fellow at the Royal Eye Infirmary, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust , offering a 12‑month fixed‑term contract within our dynamic and expanding Ophthalmology department. We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic clinician to join our dedicated Glaucoma team, contributing to high‑quality patient care and supporting the continued development of specialist glaucoma services across the region.
The successful candidate will work closely with our consultant glaucoma specialists at the Royal Eye Infirmary, gaining extensive experience in the management of complex glaucoma, including medical, laser and surgical care. The post provides a valuable opportunity to develop advanced clinical skills, participate in multidisciplinary team working, and engage in service improvement initiatives that enhance patient pathways and outcomes.
Our Ophthalmology unit delivers a comprehensive range of routine, urgent and specialist services. The post‑holder will be expected to play an active role in outpatient clinics, laser sessions, theatre lists, and the on‑call rota as appropriate. Opportunities for involvement in teaching, audit, and research are available and strongly encouraged.
Main duties of the job
This post is for a Glaucoma Clinical Fellow, supporting the continued development and delivery of high‑quality glaucoma services within the department. The role has been created to strengthen clinical capacity within the glaucoma team, and there may be potential for extension.
The post will be based at the Royal Eye Infirmary providing core glaucoma‑focused clinical activities including triaging referrals, managing outpatient clinics, delivering laser procedures, on call duties and assisting with glaucoma surgery. The post‑holder will work closely with the consultant glaucoma team and wider multidisciplinary staff to ensure timely, safe and effective care for patients with a wide spectrum of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Working for our organisation
We are a people business – where every member of staff matters and can make a difference. Patients are at the heart of everything we do. Joining University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust means becoming part of a team of dedicated staff, who are committed to leading the way through innovation, clinical excellence and great customer care. The Trust has great opportunities for career development in a highly progressive working environment. We offer all of this in a vibrant, modern city with a historic reputation for adventure.
We encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply for our roles, as diversity strengthens our teams.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
This fellowship is designed for ophthalmologists approaching the end of their postgraduate training or for experienced clinicians seeking to further refine their practical and subspecialty expertise. Over the course of this one‑year post—with the possibility of extension to a second year for the right candidate—the successful applicant will gain advanced clinical exposure within ophthalmology, with particular emphasis on subspecialty training in Glaucoma. The role offers an excellent opportunity to consolidate high‑level clinical skills, develop confidence in managing complex glaucoma patients, and contribute meaningfully to a busy, forward‑thinking eye unit. Appropriately skilled candidates will have the opportunity to run their own cataract surgery lists, while additional supervised training can be provided for those wishing to further develop their surgical competencies.
The post‑holder will work collaboratively with consultant colleagues to deliver a high‑quality ophthalmic service that meets national standards and waiting‑time targets. They will be actively involved in glaucoma outpatient clinics, laser sessions, surgical activity, and multidisciplinary patient pathways, ensuring safe, efficient and patient‑centred care. A key component of the role is a commitment to education: the fellow will play an integral part in the training and supervision of junior doctors, medical students, and nursing or allied health staff both within the Royal Eye Infirmary and across associated clinical settings. Engagement in clinical audit, quality improvement initiatives, and service development projects is expected, contributing to the continuous enhancement of departmental standards and patient outcomes.
This appointment is made under Whitley Council terms and conditions, with the contract held by the Trust. The post offers a stimulating and supportive environment for a motivated clinician seeking to advance their subspecialty training and prepare for senior or consultant‑level roles in ophthalmology.
Person specification
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & SPECIAL TRAINING
- 3 Years or more Ophthalmic training equivalent to that recognized in the UK Full GMC registration and a license to practice MRCOphth FRCS or equivalent
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
- Competent to undertake unsupervised new and follow up outpatient clinics. Ability to perform cataract surgery under supervision. Able to deal with general ophthalmology emergencies
- Good knowledge of Glaucoma laser treatment Able to perform cataract surgery independently
APTITUDE & ABILITIES
- Ability to work unsupervised Broad experience of the management of common eye diseases.
- Experience in Glaucoma
DISPOSITION / ATTITUDE / MOTIVATION
- Flexibility Recognition of personal limitations and preparedness to seek advice Excellent communication skills Good clinical skills Enthusiastic and approachable
- An interest in acquiring ophthalmic subspecialty skills An interest in teaching
OTHER FACTORS
- Ability to work hours of the job and participate in the 1st on call rota Good command of the English language
Employer certification / accreditation badges
You must have appropriate UK professional registration.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Name Mr Kleonikos Tsakiris
Job title Consultant Ophthalmologist - Glaucoma
Email address kleonikos.tsakiris@nhs.net
Telephone number 01752439355
Additional information
Trust Doctor StR Higher Glaucoma Clinical Fellow in Plymouth employer: Plymouth Hospitals
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Senior Respiratory Pharmacist, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, including support for non-medical prescribing and consultant-level credentialing, all while being part of a dedicated multidisciplinary team committed to delivering high-quality care in a vibrant coastal city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trust Doctor StR Higher Glaucoma Clinical Fellow in Plymouth
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Plymouth Hospitals often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Plymouth Hospitals
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Plymouth Hospitals. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Plymouth Hospitals.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Plymouth Hospitals.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Plymouth Hospitals.
