Here to help: Non-accredited biomedical science degrees

Alan Wainwright and Richardia Penn from the IBMS give their top tips for submitting documentation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the role of biomedical scientists in an unprecedented fashion. Crucially this has been down to professional knowledge and adaptability of roles that ensured essential pathology services were maintained. This is possible because of the thorough grounding in biomedical science theory and practice along with standards of profi ciency that underpin our profession. In this context, two standards are paramount: HCPC SoP 13.8Understand the role of the following specialisms in the diagnosis, treatment and management of disease: cellular science, blood science, infection science, molecular and genetic science and reproductive science. HCPC SoP 14.7Be able to demonstrate profi ciency in practical skills in cellular science, blood science, infection science, molecular and genetic science and reproductive science, where appropriate to the discipline.

The two main preferred routes to HCPC registration as a biomedical scientist are an IBMS-accredited degree containing the Registration Training Portfolio (integrated degree), or an IBMS-accredited degree with the Registration Training Portfolio completed outside of the degree.

Additionally, for graduates that have a science honours degree that is not IBMS accredited, the IBMS has a route that employers have identifi ed as suitable for candidates undertaking biomedical scientist training. These degrees are more likely to require supplementary study consisting of specifi ed “top-up” modules from an IBMS-accredited degree, which can be frustrating and costly.

There is no escaping the requirement for these individuals to show clear evidence of the depth and breadth of knowledge in biomedical science in order to meet the academic content required by the HCPC standards of profi ciency. In terms of academic curriculum, they must demonstrate they have studied subjects commensurate with IBMS-accredited programmes and this includes the key biomedical subjects: cellular pathology, clinical biochemistry, clinical genetics, clinical immunology, haematology and transfusion science, medical microbiology and virology.

The IBMS has a process for evaluating non-accredited degrees that are equivalent to BSc (Hons) level or above. All applications are assessed on the basis of the taught academic subject content and level of the qualifi cation award. Shortfalls in education are identifi ed and the individual advised on their supplementary education requirements for compliance with the HCPC standards of profi ciency.

These are our top tips for submitting documentation when applying for this assessment: Ensure you read and follow the guidance and frequently asked questions available on our website before starting your application. Part A and Part B of the application process will provide further instruction and information on how to submit your application. Part B includes an electronic attachment of sample module descriptors. Ensure to redact your personal details from any documents submitted in Part B. Avoid submitting supporting documentation as a link to the

University website. Ensure to read the outcome letter for the degree assessment in full once received. This will provide guidance on the next steps of the process as well as appealing your outcome.

All degree assessment documentation can be accessed via the website

ibms.org/degree-assessment

UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme for Immunocytochemistry and In-Situ Hybridisation has a vacancy for a Staff Scientist

We are looking for someone to join our enthusiastic, hard-working team of scientists based in Farringdon, London. This is a new post, created to accommodate increased demand for our services and to enable us to develop new EQA products.

About the Scheme

The UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme for Immunocytochemistry and In-Situ Hybridisation (UK NEQAS ICC & ISH): • has been in existence for nearly 40 years • monitors the quality of advanced testing in clinical cellular pathology laboratories across the NHS and private healthcare providers • is a market leader in the provision of external quality assessment (EQA) services, to the UK and worldwide • helps to improve cancer testing and patient outcomes • is accredited by UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) • is a member of the UK NEQAS Consortium (a registered UK charity).

About your role

In your work with us you will: • participate in the scienti c and laboratory work supporting our core EQA activities • be involved in our quarterly EQA assessment runs, working with expert assessors from across the world • be expected to work in a self-directed manner when carrying-out your day-to-day work.

About you

If you are the person we are looking for, you will: • have experience of working in a clinical histopathology service laboratory or research facility • be enthusiastic about what you do and meticulous in the way you do it. Your starting salary will be dependent on your previous experience and skill set, it will be between £47,154 and £55,442 per annum (inclusive of high cost area supplement). Your worktime hours will be 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday. Training will be given where needed to help you fully develop into your role.

If you want to know more

Read the Job Description and Person Speci cation, which is available here:

https://ukneqasiccish.org/job-vacancy/

If you then need more information, email Andy Dodson (Scheme Director). If you want to apply, email your CV and a covering letter telling us why you want the job and why you are the person we are looking for to: adodson@ukneqasiccish.org

We should receive your application by Friday, 11th March, 2022.

Make the move to Island life

The States of Guernsey are looking for an Anatomical Pathology Technologist & to join the team at Pathology. Work on the beautiful Island of Guernsey looking for.

States of Guernsey

Find out more at:

Executive Head of Education

Institute of Biomedical Science

We are looking to recruit a new Executive Head of Education following the retirement of the current post holder. This individual is a key member of the senior leadership team of the IBMS, working closely with the CEO and the other Executive Heads, and is responsible for delivering the work programmes that underpin the Institute’s corporate strategy for education and professional standards of practice. They will provide a high level of specifi c expertise in assessing the impact and implementation of central initiatives on the Institute and its members. The postholder will provide expert advice to Council and the Chief Executive on education and training initiatives and support the operational performance of the education department as well as working closely with the Chair of the Education and Professional Standards Committee to deliver to the Terms of Reference and the education components of Institute’s strategy. This role will be the lead for the Institute’s HCPC approved programmes and degree accreditations and will the primary contact for key stakeholders, including academic providers of professional degrees in biomedical science, to ensure the IBMS professional learning opportunities are appropriate to the needs of the profession. This is a highly interactive role requiring high-level strategic thinking, exemplary communication and diplomacy skills, self-direction, initiative and a thorough knowledge of HCPC regulatory standards in the widest context. The IBMS offers a fl exible salary package plus benefi ts depending on experience. For further information please contact our recruitment partner Jonathan Wiles at Page Executive Email: jonathanwiles@pageexecutive.com. To apply please send your CV and a covering letter to the same address by 17.00 hrs on Friday 25th March.