HSE Mid West is inviting applications for the position of Medical Scientist Specialist, Histodissection – Histology based within the Histology Department at University Hospital Limerick. This permanent whole-time opportunity offers experienced Medical Scientists the chance to play a leading role in delivering high-quality histopathology laboratory services while supporting innovation, quality improvement, education and patient-centred care across the region.
Role Overview
The successful candidate will work closely with Consultant Histopathologists and the Chief Medical Scientist to support the implementation and management of the Histodissection service within the Histology Laboratory. The role combines specialist clinical practice with leadership responsibilities, ensuring the delivery of safe, efficient and high-quality laboratory services that meet national and international standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform macroscopic examination, description and dissection of surgical and biopsy specimens.
- Provide specialist expertise in histodissection across routine and complex specimen categories.
- Support the continuous development and improvement of Histology laboratory services.
- Maintain compliance with ISO 15189 standards and quality management systems.
- Develop, review and implement laboratory standard operating procedures.
- Lead and support training, mentoring and competency assessment of laboratory staff.
- Participate in audit, quality assurance, incident management and service improvement initiatives.
- Contribute to research, education and the introduction of new laboratory technologies and practices.
- Assist with workload management, resource planning and efficient laboratory operations.
- Promote patient safety, professional standards and collaborative multidisciplinary working.
Requirements
- Registration, or eligibility for registration, with the Medical Scientists Registration Board at CORU.
- Master’s qualification (NFQ Level 9) or recognised equivalent relevant to Medical Science.
- Minimum four years’ full-time post-qualification clinical experience (or five years’ aggregate experience) in a clinical diagnostic laboratory.
- Demonstrated specialist knowledge and experience in Histodissection.
- Evidence of continuing professional development relevant to the role.
- Experience dissecting a broad range of surgical pathology specimens, including complex gastrointestinal, breast, gynaecological and genitourinary specimens.
- Strong leadership, communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.
- Commitment to quality assurance, patient safety and continuous service improvement.
Salary
€76,302 – €96,839 per annum (HSE Medical Scientist Specialist Grade 3878, 9-point salary scale, plus Long Service Increments where applicable), based on the HSE Consolidated Salary Scales effective 1 June 2026. New appointees normally commence on the first point of the scale, with incremental credit considered for recognised relevant public service experience.
Location
This position is based within the Department of Histology at University Hospital Limerick, forming part of HSE Mid West Acute Services. The laboratory provides regional diagnostic histology services for hospitals, community services and General Practitioners across Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary.
Contract Type
Permanent Whole-Time (35 hours per week).
Application Details
Applications should be submitted online via Rezoomo before the closing date.
Reference: HSEMW20626
Informal Enquiries
- Ellen Murphy, Chief Medical Scientist, HSE MW Acute Hospital Limerick
Email: ellen.murphy2@hse.ie
Telephone: 061 482856 - Marie Carr, Laboratory Manager, HSE MW Acute Hospital Limerick
Email: marie.carr@hse.ie
Telephone: 061 482244 - Recruitment queries: UHLRecruitment@hse.ie
