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Job summary

Main area
Pathology
Grade
Band 5 Annex U
Contract
Permanent
Hours
Full time - 37.5 hours per week
Job ref
290-NWLP-386
Employer
North West London Pathology
Employer type
NHS
Site
Charing Cross Hospital
Town
London
Salary
£34,016.40 - £45,356 pa inclusive
Salary period
Yearly
Closing
09/03/2026 23:59

Employer heading

North West London Pathology logo

Trainee Biomedical Scientist

Band 5 Annex U

North West London Pathology (NWLP) is an NHS pathology partnership joint venture between Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Chelsea & Westminster NHS Foundation Trust and The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. NWLP is modelled as a shared services organisation jointly owned by the three Trusts. The organisation is hosted by Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust and as the legal entity for NWLP our staff are employed by Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust.

NWLP is based on a ‘hub and spoke’ structure; the majority of routine, specialist and non-urgent activity is centralised at our hub site at Charing Cross Hospital. Urgent tests required for immediate patient management and treatment are performed in 24/7 Essential Service Laboratories based on-site within the seven hospital sites in the group.

The partnership has created an innovative and sustainable service that delivers outstanding quality to users and patients alike. This innovative approach allows the service to better manage demand, standardise operations, improve value for money and make use of state-of-the-art technology.

Our values are to be patient-focused, collaborative, expert and caring.

Job overview

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our Electron Microscopy team as a Band 5 Trainee. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about developing specialist skills within a highly technical and rewarding diagnostic environment. 

Applications are sought from self-motivating individuals who are currently in possession of an IBMS approved degree. You should have good communication skills and the ability to manage work and study.
 
Suitable applicants will already have a solid foundation in electron microscopy and core laboratory practices, including embedding, microtomy, and quality control. You should demonstrate good attention to detail, commitment to high laboratory standards, and a genuine interest in advancing your expertise in EM techniques.

At NWLP, we are committed to supporting both your personal and professional growth. As part of our team, you will have access to structured training, mentorship, and development opportunities that will enable you to fulfil your potential and progress in your career.

If you are keen to develop advanced specialist skills and contribute to a high‑quality diagnostic service, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Main duties of the job

  • To work in all sections of the department under the supervision of a section leader and be involved in the IBMS / HCPC training scheme which will enable you to gain knowledge of all scientific, technical and clerical work of the department in preparation for Registration.
  • Once HCPC registered, take part in duties without supervision at a level of autonomy requiring decision-making but can refer to more senior or medical staff for support and organize own work tasks or activities.
  • To perform your work in accordance with the standard operational policies using intermediate theoretical knowledge and may organize own work tasks or activities.
  • Ensure that documentation is maintained to the Trust standard (including electronic records).
  • To demonstrate awareness and compliance with Trust policies, procedures, guidelines and standards. To work towards promoting this to others.
  • Identify and report clinical risks so that appropriate action can be taken in accordance with the Trust risk management policy.

Working for our organisation

Benefits include career development, flexible working, staff wellbeing programmes, staff awards and recognition scheme. We also have available benefits including Cycle to Work, car lease schemes, season ticket loan or membership options for onsite leisure facilities.

NWLP Induction

The NWLP induction will run on the first Monday of each month (provided it does not fall on a bank holiday) and includes laboratory training (for relevant laboratory roles). All new staff must attend the NWLP induction during their first week with NWLP.

For 2026, see below the start dates which you will be able to book once you have completed all your pre-employment checks.

Monday 13 April 2026
Monday 11 May 2026
Monday 1 June 2026
Monday 6 July 2026
Monday 3 August 2026
Monday 7 September 2026
Monday 5 October 2026
Monday 2 November 2026
Monday 7 December 2026

Candidates are advised to consider these start dates before agreeing end of service date with their current employer.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The full job description provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge required. For both overviews please view the Job Description attachment with the job advert.

Person specification

Education

Essential criteria
  • IBMS accredited degree completed
  • Higher academic qualification equivalent to Foundation Degree
  • Enrolled in first year of accredited BSc

Experience

Essential criteria
  • Basic scientific skills appropriate to a pathology laboratory
Desirable criteria
  • Work experience in a relevant diagnostic lab
  • Knowledge of health and safety issues

Skills

Essential criteria
  • Methodical - Able to follow instruction
  • Adaptable to high-pressure environments
  • Team player with self motivation
  • Willingness to handle biological materials and work safely with biological specimens
Desirable criteria
  • Customer Service experience

Employer certification / accreditation badges

Apprenticeships logoNo smoking policyAge positiveInvestors in People: GoldImproving working livesArmed Forces Covenant (Silver Award)Disability confident employerNHS Rainbow Badge - BronzeWe Work Flexibly

Documents to download

Apply online now

Further details / informal visits contact

Name
Linda Moran
Job title
Clinical Scientist
Email address
[email protected]
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