Clinical Scientist in Immunology

Clinical Scientists in Immunology develop, manage and interpret laboratory tests on patient samples that assist in the investigation, diagnosis and treatment of immunological diseases.

The discipline of Clinical Immunology covers Immunodeficiency, Allergy, Autoimmune disease (which can affect any organ in the body), tissue transplantation and cancer of cells of the immune system.

Techniques commonly used involve analysis of the many types of cells of the immune system, the detection and quantification of specific antibodies including autoantibodies and the measurement of many other important proteins in blood, tissues and body fluids.

Automated equipment is widely used, but specific analyses call for intricate manual procedures. The complex nature of these tests means that clinical interpretation is usually necessary. Scientists are also involved in basic or applied research, often working with medical colleagues. The introduction and development of new techniques is an integral part of the clinical scientists role.

Entry Requirements
A good honours degree in Immunology or a related subject is needed to enter the National Health Service as a trainee Clinical Scientist in Immunology. A higher degree, whilst not essential, is desirable. Many successful candidates have a relevant MSc or PhD.

For entry for a degree course in an appropriate subject the usual requirement is three/four Highers (A-C) plus Standard Grades (1-3) in one/two other subjects. The Highers should include Chemistry and two other Science subjects from Biology, Maths or Physics.

However, entry requirements vary between courses and alternative qualifications may be accepted – check individual university prospectuses for details

Training
Entry is as a Grade A trainee to follow an approved four-year training programme, usually attending an MSc course during that time. Higher Specialist Training (HST), which follows completion of Grade A training, lasts five years and allows study towards MRCPath or possibly a PhD.

Career Prospects
Career progression is from Grade A to a Grade B post (the main career grade). Positions are advertised nationally and could require relocation. As a Grade B scientist you would assume a more supervisory role and carry fuller responsibility for the work of the laboratory.

Career expectation should be to progress to a Grade C post, becoming a head or deputy head of a department.

How to apply
Click here to view current NHS Scotland vacancies in Immunology

Vacancies are also advertised in local and national press.

Further details and application forms for most Grade A training posts can be obtained from the Clinical Scientists Recruitment Centre.

Applications for degree courses are made through The Universities and Colleges Admission Services.

Further Information
For further information on careers as a Clinical Biochemist, please see the Association of Clinical Scientists in Immunology (ACSI)