Job overview

The post holder must be a Biomedical Scientist or Clinical Scientist registered with the HCPC, possess a relevant higher degree (e.g. MSc in Pathological Sciences) and hold the IBMS Diploma of Expert Practice in Histological Dissection including successful completion of the gastrointestinal and / or cardiothoracic module. The successful candidate will hold the IBMS Advanced Specialist Diploma in Dissection and have the knowledge and experience of working at this advanced level in gastrointestinal and / or cardiothoracic histopathology. However, consideration will be given to candidates with the Advanced Specialist Diploma or experience of dissection at this level in other specialties or who are working toward this qualification who may be appointed into an Advanced Practitioner Training role (Band 7). On completion of this qualification, they will move into the Advanced Practitioner role (Band 8a).

Consideration will also be given to Clinical Scientists who have completed the Specialist Scientific Training Programme in Tissue Dissection and who can demonstrate appropriate / relevant experience in gastrointestinal and / or cardiothoracic dissection. The successful candidate may also be asked to undertake dissection in other specialties depending on their experiences and qualifications held. 

Main duties of the job

With support from the Consultant Histopathologist team, and following competency assessment, you will be independently dissecting category A – E specimens using RCPath data sets.

You will, in conjunction with Consultant Pathologists, interpret national policies for their specialised section and take part in their implementation.

Sharing the responsibility with Specialty Lead Pathologist of specialist team for training of BMS / resident doctors in cut up techniques.

You will be able to demonstrate extensive knowledge and experience of the specialist techniques associated with dissection including decalcification, fixation, macro photography and dissection, tissue processing and embedding techniques.

We support and encourage our Biomedical Scientists to undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities, which could be internal talks and seminars, as well as attending approved courses. We also have a dedicated Training Lead, supporting the Cellular Pathology strategy for training, as well as Training Officers within each department. The department also has full HCPC training status for pre and post registration IBMS portfolios, and full ISO 15189 accreditation.

Working for our organisation

Join Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) and become part of a 30,000 plus strong team, delivering exceptional care to over 1 million people every year. As the largest provider of specialist services, and our Oxford Road Campus in Manchester, the largest health academic campus in Europe, we are forward-thinking, committed to clinical excellence and driven to deliver innovation, and continuous improvement.
Whether you’re beginning your career or taking the next step, MFT offers a stimulating and supportive environment where your contribution truly matters. Our Hive Electronic Patient Record system enables safer, smarter, and more efficient ways of working - empowering you to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.
You’ll be part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary community, working alongside professionals from a wide range of clinical backgrounds. Together, we push boundaries, share knowledge, and deliver care that transforms lives.
At MFT, you’ll find a workplace where everyone is respected, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We offer clear clinical pathways for professional development, helping you grow your skills and achieve your ambitions.
Your journey at MFT is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact. We’ll support you as you shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.