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Careers in Clinical Biochemistry

This section of the website contains some useful pointers for those considering a career in clinical science. Follow the links on the left hand menu for an insight into the career path of a clinical biochemist.

Becoming a Clinical Biochemist

The basic qualification for becoming a Clinical Biochemist is a good Honours degree in Biochemistry or Chemistry (or another science subject which contains a substantial Biochemistry component). Other science degrees may be suitable for certain posts, and Membership or Graduate Membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry or Membership of the Institute of Biologists by examination are also acceptable.

Trainee Clinical Biochemist posts are advertised nationally, usually in the early part of each year (January/February). Advertisements may appear in Nature, New Scientist, the national press or ACB News . These posts are for the approved Grade A Training Programme, designed to prepare entrants for higher professional qualifications and eventual Consultant responsibility. Some posts, particularly those in small or specialised Departments, are not suitable for training, and prospective applicants are advised to ask specifically about training opportunities and access to approved training programmes. The officers of The Association for Clinical Biochemistry will be happy to advise in specific cases if there is any doubt. The Universities of London, Birmingham, Manchester and Surrey currently offer MSc courses in Clinical Biochemistry. Full time and 'sandwich ' courses are available, and further information may be obtained from individual programmes, although the level of financial support provided varies, and should be clarified at interview.

Many entrants to the profession will already have obtained a PhD, and the training and research experience that this provides is invaluable to the work of the Clinical Biochemist. In larger Departments, there may be opportunities to study for a research degree after entering the profession (usually in the B grade), but since this has to be fitted in with other responsibilities, it may take some years to complete.

Links

Follow the link to the Clinical Scientists Recruitment Office Page, this body coordinates the recruitment of clinical scientists in England and Wales, Grade A posts for clinical biochemists in Scotland are advertised in New Scientists early each year (Jan/Feb).

Also take a look at the section on Clinical Biochemists on the NHS Careers Website

The training of medical graduates wishing to specialise in clinical biochemistry is coordinated through the Royal College of Pathologists

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