Associate Practitioner - Histology

About the Role

The Associate Practitioner position in histology involves performing a range of duties essential for the efficient functioning of the pathology section. The role supports the delivery of specialized diagnostic services that directly impact patient clinical care. Candidates will carry out laboratory procedures within the Pathology Department that do not require Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration.

Handling includes body fluids and potentially high-risk specimens from patients with infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B. The role requires applying scientific techniques to assist in diagnosing pathological conditions, relying on training up to Foundation or BSc degree level. The practitioner will perform duties both under supervision and independently following competence assessments by senior staff.

Close coordination with senior laboratory personnel is expected to maintain a high-quality technical service aligned with UKAS standards. Collaboration with scientific and medical staff across all levels ensures the effective execution of laboratory services. The position entails exposure to human tissue samples, body fluids, and hazardous chemicals.

Main Responsibilities

• Participate in routine Cellular Pathology rotas rotating through various laboratory sections as directed, including:
• Specimen reception and processing
• Assisting with specimen cut-up
• Embedding specimens for analysis
• Microtomy (sectioning tissues)
• Performing Haematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) staining
• Conducting Internal Quality Control (IQC) processes
• Specimen decalcification
• Applying special stains
• Supporting Immunohistochemistry testing

Rotation assignments will align with the individual's scope of practice based on training and competency as assessed by senior team members.

About Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

The Trust delivers comprehensive medical and surgical care to approximately 600,000 residents in Hampshire and parts of West Berkshire, through facilities like Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester, and Andover War Memorial Hospital. With a workforce exceeding 9,000 employees and an annual turnover over £500 million, the Trust is a leader in specialized services, including being one of two UK centers for pseudomyxoma peritonei treatment and a recognized leader in tertiary liver and colorectal cancer care.

The organizational culture prioritizes placing people at the center of all activities, promoting belonging, continuous learning, improvement, and excellence.

Additional Information

The Trust may offer accommodation to successful applicants, subject to availability, to ease the relocation process. Interested candidates can inquire further through the provided contact.

Contact Information

For more details or informal visits, please reach out to Kingfred Kazembe, Operations Manager, via email at kingfred.kazembe@hhft.nhs.uk or by phone at 01962 824458.