How to become a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology
One way to become a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology is to complete a postgraduate-level work-based training programme. Alternatively, if you have relevant qualifications and significant professional NHS experience in genetics, you can apply for registration through an equivalence route.
What is a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology?
Clinical scientists in genetics and molecular pathology analyse genetic preparations to identify alterations and abnormalities. They test for genetic abnormalities in both prenatal and postnatal samples and can provide information on:
- Carrier status – identify individuals who may be at risk of passing on a genetic disorder to their children.
- Diagnosis – identify people with inherited and acquired conditions.
- Prognosis and therapeutics – provide prognostic information and suggest treatment options where relevant.
Starting your career as a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology
Choosing subjects at school
School subjects that could lead to a career as a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology include:
- English
- Maths
- Biology
- Biology
- Chemistry
Speak to your guidance teacher or careers adviser about subjects offered at your school.
Work placements and volunteering
You may find it helpful to get some healthcare experience by doing a work placement or volunteering. You’ll get training, increase your knowledge, and learn new skills. This could help you when applying to university, college or a new job with NHSScotland.
Education and training pathway
There are different education and training pathways to becoming a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology.
Clinical scientist training programme
As a trainee, you’ll complete a 3-year programme of work-based learning. During the programme, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge and experience you need to become a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology.
You must have a relevant undergraduate honours degree at SCQF level 10 to apply to a clinical scientist training programme in genetics and molecular pathology. Subjects include:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Biomedical Sciences
Once you complete the programme, you’ll register as a clinical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
You can apply for training opportunities on our recruitment website.
Clinical scientist equivalence recognition
If you already have significant professional NHS experience in genetics and molecular pathology or have completed a training programme that does not directly lead to registration as a clinical scientist, you can apply for equivalence recognition.
It is a route you can take to demonstrate that you already have the skills, knowledge, and experience to become a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology.
You’ll submit a portfolio of work to the Academy for Healthcare Science or the Association of Clinical Scientists for assessment and attend an interview. If successful, you can register with the HCPC as a clinical scientist.
Find out more about clinical scientist training and equivalence recognition on the NHS Education for Scotland Healthcare Science website.
Get to know the role
As a clinical scientist in genetics and molecular pathology, you’ll analyse genetic tests using specialised software packages and interpret the results.
Tasks include:
- analyse, check, and authorise results for genetic disorders, which may include complex statistical analysis or risk calculations
- complete reports and offer advice to clinicians on the interpretation of molecular and cytogenetic diagnostic data, any relevant future investigations, and options for patient management
- prioritise urgent samples for testing and decide if supplementary tests are needed
- research, develop, and implement new techniques for analysing samples
- commission and implement new equipment into routine services
- train colleagues, external professionals, students and the public on genetics and molecular pathology
Clinical scientists in genetics and molecular pathology need these skills:
- communicating
- collaborating
- focussing
- sense-making
- organisation skills
- critical thinking
You could work with:
- administration assistants
- associate practitioners
- clinicians
- bioinformaticians
- specialist nurses
- other clinical scientists
You'll work in a hospital laboratory.
Learning and development
As a clinical scientist, you’re expected to undertake continuous professional development activities to:
- keep your knowledge and skills up to date
- maintain your registration with the HCPC
Clinical scientists must meet the HCPC’s standards for CPD. Learn more about the HCPC’s guidance on CPD activities.
Career progression
During your career, you can also work towards additional qualifications, such as the Royal College of Pathologists examinations in these specialties:
- Genetics
- Molecular Pathology
Gaining qualifications could lead to more senior roles or the chance to advance into specialised practice areas.
Professional bodies
To work in the NHS as a clinical scientist, you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Other professional bodies and societies include:
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