Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
Specialty Doctor – Histopathology

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Specialty Doctor – Histopathology
Histopathology Assistant Specialist Pathologist
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, the largest healthcare provider in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, seeks a dedicated Histopathology Assistant Specialist Pathologist to join its team. We are the premier site for Cancer Of Uncertain Primary within our region and hold full UKAS Accreditation. This year, we expect to receive:
- Over 40,000 Histology requests
- 1,600 Diagnostic Cytology requests
- 900 Autopsy requests
About the Role
The laboratory is histopathology-focused, offering a comprehensive range of molecular diagnostics. Due to recent structural changes, we now operate a subspecialty reporting system, creating new and exciting opportunities for specialist pathologists as well as those with a general training background.
We welcome practitioners from both specialist and generalised backgrounds, but applicants with an interest in Gastrointestinal (GI), Gynaecological (Gynae), or Dermatopathology will be strongly considered.
Portfolio pathway applicants requiring additional Supported Pathway Assistants’ (SPA) time may qualify for extra hours—if you are eligible, please provide an update on your progress.
Key Responsibilities:
- Report identifying cancer sites with a high completion rate, within mandated timelines.
- Provide progressive, high-quality histopathology reporting under the supervision of a dedicated Consultant Pathologist, autonomously increasing as experience grows.
- Comply with RCPath guidelines for all Duties Of Weekly Timetable:
- Dissect, describe, and process surgical biopsies and major resection specimens, including cancer tissues.
- Issue diagnostic reports under the ultimate responsibility of a named Consultant Pathologist.
- Ensure strict adherence to RCPath standards in cancer specimen reporting.
- Assist and contribute to relevant multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
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Optional but Available:
- Frozen section service support (no mandatory requirement).
- Contributions to cytology reporting or post-mortem service provision may occasionally arise.
Part-Time Opportunities:
Those applying for full-time capacity but unable to do so for personal reasons will be considered. Job modification options will be discussed on an individual basis with the Trust, in collaboration with a Consultant colleague.
About Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
We deliver transformative acute medical, surgical, and specialist care serving the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly community—approximately 570,000 patients, with fluctuations during peak holiday periods. Our three main sites:


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- Royal Cornwall Hospital (Truro)
- St Michael’s Hospital (Hayle)
- West Cornwall Hospital (Penzance)
Key Facts:
- 5,000+ staff working across our keyboards, behind our laboratory sections, and directly in patient care.
- Budget of £380 million and 750 beds, financing unparalleled healthcare investments.
- Teaching hospital status within the University of Exeter Medical School, ensuring innovation remains at our core.
- Collaboration with partners like NHS Kernow and NHS England to prioritise regional needs effectively.
What We Offer
- An enriching academic and professional development pathway tailored to your career aspirations.
- Supportive and inclusive working culture.
- A rewarding career contributing to superior community healthcare.
The region offers exceptional balance: pristine surfing beaches and historic towns, vibrant fishing harbours, and natural escapes into extraordinary countryside. It’s an ideal living environment for all ages and types of ambition.
Informal Enquiries & Visits
Name: Katy Valentine Job Title: Specialty Lead, Histopathology Email: katy.valentine2@nhs.net Phone: 01872 252528
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