Clinical biochemist : Entry requirements

As of 2011, in England and Wales, a new graduate entry Scientist Training Programme (STP) replaced the previous Clinical Scientist Training Scheme. The recruitment for the healthcare scientist training positions takes place early in the year for the September intake. Recruitment usually begins in February, with a closing date in mid-March.

NHS Trusts will offer 200 training posts in life sciences, physics and engineering and physiological sciences. Successful candidates will join a three-year training programme of workplace-based learning and a Masters degree in their specialist subject.

There is a single timetable for recruitment as well as national guidelines and assessment centres to ensure that all candidates are treated fairly and equally. Candidates can apply for the training posts at the NHS Jobs website while the selection process is organised by local trusts.

Details of all training posts are available on NHS Jobs  and will be advertised in New Scientist Jobs . Further details of the scheme and a list of all the job roles are available on the NHS Healthcare Scientist Training Programme (STP)  page on the NHS Careers  website.

Scotland is also adopting the new training programme but will still be recruiting by specialist subject, rather than on a national basis for the time being. Training will be provided by individual NHS boards. Details of each training scheme can be found at Clinical Scientist Pre-Registration Training Schemes Scotland  and can also be found in the New Scientist .

The following subjects may prove advantageous:

• analytical chemistry;
• applied chemistry;
• biochemistry;
• biology;
• chemistry.

Entry is not possible without a degree or with a foundation degree only.

A higher degree, while not essential, is extremely desirable. Many successful candidates have a relevant research-based MSc or PhD. Trainee clinical scientists follow an approved four-year training programme and attend an MSc course during that time. Accredited MSc courses in clinical biochemistry are currently offered by four universities: Birmingham, London, Surrey and Manchester.

Study periods are conducted on a day-release or block-release basis depending on the university - check the individual institutions for more details. The number of pre-registration places varies each year according to the amount of funding available and competition for places is high.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• laboratory skills and the ability to plan and do research;
• strong problem-solving skills;
• an analytical and investigative mind;
• excellent oral and written communication skills;
• the ability to manage a laboratory project and liaise with a wide variety of technical colleagues;
• the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Most laboratories are highly computerised so computer literacy is essential.

Laboratory experience and an insight into the workings of a hospital laboratory is very important so arrange a visit to a local hospital laboratory before you apply. Even better, investigate the possibility of short-term work experience in a clinical biochemistry laboratory. Contact the consultant or principal clinical biochemist in your local trust hospital of The National Health Service (NHS) . Before applying, seek the advice of your regional tutor of The Association for Clinical Biochemistry (ACB) . Your careers service should be able to provide you with details.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.