Clinical Vascular Scientist, Band 7

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has become available for a Clinical Vascular Scientist (or a Sonographer experienced in Vascular Ultrasound) to join a team of 12 in the Vascular Laboratories at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Due to service expansion, we are seeking to employ a full-time (1.0 WTE, 37.5 hours per week) clinical vascular scientist on a fixed-term 12-month contract. The department operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, though flexible working hours can be considered. You will be expected to work across both sites at Cheltenham General and Gloucester Royal Hospitals, with a regular free shuttle bus service between the sites.

The successful candidate must have experience in vascular ultrasound and will be required to perform and report on a wide range of vascular ultrasound examinations.

Ideal candidates are statutorily registered Clinical Scientists, CSVS-accredited Vascular Scientists (AVS), or individuals with a relevant postgraduate qualification in vascular ultrasound. You must be able to perform and independently report on the required examinations. STP trainees in their final year are also invited to apply.

A face-to-face interview is required, as you may be asked to participate in a practical assessment.

Main duties of the job

- Perform and report on a range of vascular ultrasound scans.

- Manage the daily patient workload.

- Participate in research, audits, and teaching activities.

- Supervise trainee vascular scientists.

- Assist with administrative duties and the operational management of the department.

The department provides a specialised diagnostic vascular ultrasound imaging service for the Gloucestershire and Swindon vascular network. The main services offered include assessments of the extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries, examinations of peripheral arteries and veins in the upper and lower limbs, surveillance of bypass grafts and post-EVAR procedures, monitoring of vein stents, evaluations of dialysis fistulas, and treadmill testing.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Key responsibilities:

The post-holder will be responsible for delivering safe, effective, and timely diagnostic vascular ultrasound services within the Gloucestershire and Swindon Vascular Network. This role requires the use of complex imaging and measurement equipment for direct patient assessment. The post-holder will operate with a high degree of autonomy, managing daily patient workloads and reporting investigation results to referring clinicians as well as advising patients on the appropriate course of action. Furthermore, the post-holder is expected to provide scientific and clinical support in the field of vascular ultrasound. They will also participate in the department's research and development activities and contribute to the teaching and training of staff and students.

Please refer to the attached job description for complete details.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

A recognised degree in life or medical sciences.

MSc in life or medical sciences (or working towards it).

Evidence of ongoing professional development through maintenance of a professional portfolio and registration revalidation.

Desirable

Active registration with the Health Care Professions Council HCPC.

Membership of a professional organisation (CSVS).

Experience

Essential

Competent in basic vascular ultrasound examinations: extracranial carotid arteries, upper and lower limb arterial and venous assessments, aorto-iliac examinations including post-EVAR.

Substantial experience in vascular ultrasound.

Desirable

Experience in extended practice, such as AVF assessment, iliac vein stent assessment and contrast ultrasound experience.

Aptitude and abilities

Essential

Effective oral and written communication skills.

Ability to prioritise and manage own work.

Ability to understand and use complex equipment.

Team working.

Desirable

Knowledge of hospital imaging and electronic patient management systems.

Knowledge

Essential

Specialised knowledge of clinical procedures and practices in vascular ultrasound.

Advanced knowledge of vascular anatomy, physiology and understanding of vascular surgical treatment options.

Proven knowledge of haemodynamics.

Desirable

Knowledge of the principals of quality assurance in vascular ultrasound service.

Proven evidence of ongoing CPD.