Clinical Scientist in Transfusion Science (& Tissue Banking)

Clinical Scientists in Transfusion may be employed to manage and develop methods of analysis and data interpretation of patient samples to assist with the investigation, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, but may be also employed in chemical engineering, tissue banking or reagent development fields. Many of these roles have an emphasis on research and development. Unlike many other clinical scientists, those in this field are responsible for the development and provision of products that are administered to patients as well as carrying out diagnostic tasks. Accordingly, there is a heavy emphasis on regulatory and quality control.

The introduction and development of new techniques is an integral part of the job. Analytical techniques commonly used include chromatography, electrophoresis, immunoassay, protein purification, cell culture and molecular biology. Automated equipment is widely used for routine assays, but specific analyses and product preparation call for intricate manual procedures.

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

For entry to a degree course in Biological Sciences 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
Transfusion Science training to date has largely been carried out at the bench, but an MSc is now available through the Bristol Transfusion Centre and the BBTS recognise a Higher Specialist Training Course. A formal grade A training scheme is under development (likely to involve a three- or four-year training programme, usually attending an MSc course during that time. Membership of the Royal College of Pathologists by examination is also being progressed, although currently only available by published works for the field of Transfusion.

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. There are also opportunities to specialise in particular areas, such as:

  • Plasma Fractionation (Protein Purification at Industrial scale).
  • Immunohaematology (Blood Grouping).
  • Tissue Banking (& Transplantation).
  • Transfusion Transmitted Infection (bacteria, viruses, etc).
  • Blood Component Preparation.
  • Cell Therapy (including stem cell transplantation).
  • 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 for Transfusion Scientists

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 Transfusion Science, please contact The British Blood Transfusion Society.