Clinical Scientist

Also known as
Healthcare scientist

Become a “hero of science"

Work at the cutting edge of preventing and treating illnesses. This mega-rewarding job involves researching and developing new ways to improve sick people's lives.

At a glance

What can you expect from this role?
Average salary per year
£35000
Starter
Experienced
£35000
£68000
Typical hours
38 to 40 a week
You could work evenings / weekends on a rota
Flexible working hours?
Need a lab coat?
Usually!

What to expect

Day-to-day tasks

There are 4 main areas of clinical science. Depending on your area you could:

  • analyse data from genetic material to trace how diseases develop
  • research and test methods to improve diagnoses and treatments
  • assess abnormalities in different parts of the body
  • study cells or diagnose and analyse blood disorders
  • investigate the causes of illness or death
  • instruct medical staff on how to use instruments and equipment

Working environment

You could work in an NHS or private hospital, in a laboratory or at a university.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

More Information

Registration

Career tips

When looking to join an NHS training programme or an apprenticeship, you'll be expected to have an understanding of how NHS values apply in your work.

Further information

You can find out more about how to become a clinical scientist from Health Careers.

Explore the different ways to get into this role

People in these types of job started their career paths after studying courses like the ones below.

University

You can do a degree to start your training as a clinical scientist. Subjects include: life sciences biology or biochemistry…
Learn more

Apprenticeship

You could apply for a place on a higher or degree apprenticeship, such as: Healthcare Science Associate Level 4 Higher…
Learn more

Other Routes

If you do not have a degree, you could apply to join the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP). During the 3-year…
Learn more

Discover the skills you need for this role

People in these types of job possess skills like the ones below.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of biology
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • science skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • complex problem-solving skills
  • maths knowledge
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Career progression

Career progression opportunities include

With experience you could:

Related Careers

Those who are typically interested in this role may also like to consider these other opportunities
View all job roles
crosschevron-downchevron-rightarrow-leftarrow-right linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram