Clinical cytogeneticist : Career development

Career progression is from trainee clinical cytogeneticist (Band 6) to post-registration (Band 7) up to the position of consultant clinical scientist (Bands 8 and 9). Promotion is directly linked to passing exams during pre-registration and post-registration periods. Post-registration positions are advertised nationally and often require relocation.

Progression to the top of Band 7 is based on merit including the completion of relevant specialised postgraduate research and publication in peer-reviewed journals. Networking at all levels is part of successful career development in this role. Maintaining a professional profile by presenting research at meetings, undertaking work exchanges abroad and applying for research grants is also recommended.

Further study and training is likely to follow, with the expectation that clinical cytogeneticists attain membership of The Royal College of Pathologists  (MRCPath) or a PhD. The MRCPath is taken in two parts: part I after a minimum of three years' training and part II during the post-registration period of training. The MRCPath allows clinical cytogeneticists to proceed to higher post-registration positions and finally to a consultancy post. Most consultancy posts carry independent responsibility for managing a laboratory and for advising the health authority on policy issues. The status is comparable to that of a hospital consultant.

Progress through the practitioner grades is not necessarily automatic. To progress beyond Band 7 and on to Band 8, cytogeneticists must gain a position with greater responsibility, along with membership of the Royal College of Pathologists (part I examination). Senior grade responsibilities will entail supervising and training a laboratory team, compiling and interpreting reports and advising health authorities on policy matters relating to cytogenetics services through work on appropriate committees.

Heads of department and deputies in larger laboratories are employed at consultant grade, which is equivalent to medical consultant level, and may be involved in university lecturing. These extra responsibilities are reflected in the salary structure. Heads of laboratories would be expected to have the full MRCPath qualification (part I and part II). Full details can be obtained from the Association for Clinical Cytogeneticists (ACC) .

It should be noted that career progression is likely to require geographical mobility within the UK.