They come from up to thirty different disciplines, including biomedical scientists, such as pathologists, audiology technicians, cardiac technicians, medical physicists and clinical engineers, who work on the design and development of new instruments. Their qualifications and responsibilities also vary enormously, from technicians through to specialists whose status is equivalent to that of medical consultants. Peter Greenaway, head of research and development at the Department of Health, says that scientists working in the NHS have the chance to see their scientific skills applied in very valuable and direct ways. The work involves using scientific skills to help people - often interacting with them, too. However, if it s a high profile you are looking for, then the human genome project might be a better hunting ground for your dream job.
Scientists are an unsung part of the workforce.
When you go to the hospital and have a blood test, you see the person who takes the sample, but not what happens to it afterwards, or the people involved. This lack of recognition is not a problem for Don Henderson, an immunologist working at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. After working for Smith Klein Beecham for 10 years, he moved into the health service, working first as what's called a grade B clinical scientist. He recently took up a new role at grade C, which in terms of pay and status is on a par with a consultant. Henderson runs three immunology departments and is also a senior lecturer at Imperial College.