Genetic Counsellor - Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Position Overview

We are looking for a Genetic Counsellor to join the North of Scotland Clinical Genetics Service at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. This service caters to approximately 950,000 people across Grampian, the Highlands, Shetland, Orkney, and the Western Isles. The multidisciplinary team includes Clinical Geneticists, Genetic Counsellors, Family History Nurses, Genetic Research Nurses, as well as administrative, molecular, and cytogenetic personnel.

Work Environment and Collaboration

The role offers close collaboration with Child Health Services (including Community Child Health and Learning Disability Support), Maternity Services at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, and Acute Medical and Surgical Departments for adult patients. It also involves engagement with the University of Aberdeen's Institute of Medical Sciences and Applied Health Sciences, located on site.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a diverse caseload encompassing general genetic disorders, cancer genetics, cardiac genetics, and prenatal genetics.
• Conducting autonomous counsellor-led follow-up clinics for inherited condition management.
• Providing expert counselling while appreciating the psychosocial effects genetic conditions have on patients and families.
• Participating actively in teaching and research initiatives.
• Networking with colleagues from other National Genetic Centres across Dundee, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

Candidate Requirements

• Registered Genetic Counsellor or possession of an MSc in Genetic/Genomic Counselling.
• Alternatively, registered nurse with relevant clinical genetics experience.
• Consideration for entry or trainee positions under Annex 21 conditions, requiring impending or completed MSc in Genetic/Genomic Counselling or an experienced nurse or midwife with NMC registration and a first or master's degree.
• Preferably with accredited counselling skills training and completed coursework in human genetics.

Additional Information

• Applicants should avoid submitting CVs as they are not considered during shortlisting.
• Interviews will be held in person with accommodations available upon request to ensure accessibility and inclusion.
• NHS Scotland values equality, diversity, and aims to eliminate discrimination.
• If applying, please ensure your email address is correct; correspondence is done via email.
• Applicants are responsible for any fees incurred entering Aberdeen City Low Emission Zone if applicable.

Contact and Application Guidance

Informal inquiries may be made to Team Leaders Annie Johnes or Lesley Snadden at 01224 552120. Applications must be completed through the official online recruitment system. Support is available if help is needed during the application process.