Entry requirements, skills and interests (clinical bioinformatics - physical sciences)

Entry requirements

Applicants must have a 1st or 2.1 either in an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree in a pure or applied science subject relevant to the specialism for which they are applying.

You're employed on a fixed-term contract and paid a salary during your training.

However, if you have a 2.2 honours degree you may submit an application if you also have a higher degree (a degree completed after a bachelor's degree, at a more advanced level such as an MSc) in a relevant subject for the specialty being applied to.

For all candidates evidence of research experience, e.g. in the form of a higher degree or equivalent evidence of scientific and academic capability, is considered desirable.

Because of the extensive variation in degrees available, it isn’t possible to provide a definitive list of relevant degrees for entry to the STP. You need to be sure that you’ve reviewed the job description and person specification for the training (on the National School of Healthcare Science’s website), and the information on this page. You then need to be sure to match the skills and knowledge required to the content of your degree and the specialism you wish to apply for.

For STP positions in informatics (which include bioinformatics in the physical sciences), the most commonly accepted degrees will be in informatics: genetics, computer science, health informatics, physics, mathematics, or engineering (degree courses with significant IT content or equivalent).

For all candidates, evidence of research experience (e.g. in the form of a higher degree or equivalent evidence of scientific and academic capability) is considered desirable.

It can be advantageous to have gained some experience of working in a relevant environment before applying for a place on a course or job vacancy. You should always check with the course provider/employer to see what sort of experience is preferred or required.

For full details of entry requirements for the STP, including qualifications, scientific skills, transferable skills and physical requirements, please see the person specification on the National School of Healthcare Science’s website.

Find out more about the training you’ll receive for a career in bioinformatics (physical sciences).

• Skills, qualities and interests needed

  To work in bioinformatics (physical sciences) you’ll need:

  • effective communication skills as the role will encompass clinical as well as laboratory settings
  • to be extremely confident with computer technology, systems and processes
  • to be able to work as part of a team.

  If you work in a role with responsibility for resources (such as staff, budgets or equipment) you'll need excellent leadership skills and be able to use your initiative within the remit of your job role.

  If you're applying for a healthcare science role or training position either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services you'll be asked to show how you think the NHS values apply in your everyday work.

  The NHS values form a key part of the NHS Constitution.

  Find out more about the NHS Constitution.