The Health Service Executive (HSE) is seeking a Chief Medical Scientist (Histology) to lead laboratory operations at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, part of the HSE Dublin and North East region. This is a permanent wholetime position offering a senior opportunity to manage and develop histopathology laboratory services in a busy acute hospital setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Histology Laboratory to ensure compliance with HSE quality and safety standards.
- Develop and implement laboratory management, operational planning, and control systems.
- Supervise, mentor, and evaluate the performance of medical scientists and support staff.
- Collaborate with the Laboratory Manager and Laboratory Director on service improvements and innovation projects.
- Oversee quality assurance programs, accreditation compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Participate in research, audit, and training as appropriate to support best practices in pathology services.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Medical Science or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Academy of Clinical Science and Laboratory Medicine (ACSLM).
- Minimum of 5 years’ post-qualification experience in a clinical histology laboratory.
- Proven leadership and staff management experience at senior scientist level.
- Strong knowledge of quality management systems and laboratory accreditation standards (ISO 15189).
- Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
Salary, Benefits & Working Hours
- Grade: Medical Scientist – Chief (3876)
- Salary Scale: In line with the Department of Health Consolidated Salary Scales (effective 1 August 2025) for Health & Social Care Professional grades.
- Contract Type: Permanent, Wholetime
- Working Hours: 37 hours per week
- Public sector pension scheme, generous leave entitlements, and career development opportunities included.
Location & Employer Information
- Employer: Health Service Executive (HSE) – Dublin and North East region
- Location: Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, Co. Louth
- The HSE is Ireland’s national public health service, providing comprehensive health and social care to all citizens across Ireland.
Application Details
- Reference: CHIEFHISTO
- Date Posted: 4 November 2025
- Closing Date: 14 November 2025 at 12:00 noon
- Apply Online: https://careers-rcsihospitals.icims.com/jobs/4336/job
- Informal Enquiries: Tony Stringer – tony.stringer@hse.ie


