National Training Programme for Clinical Scientists in Cytogenetics
 

The National Training programme for Clinical Scientists in Cytogenetics can be carried out in over 20 accredited training laboratories within the UK.  The training period is usually 2-3 years depending on the training centre.

The training programme is competence-based and follows a modular structure with the majority of trainees carrying out the following modules;
 - Basic Cytogenetics
 - Cytogenetics of Blood Samples
 - Prenatal Diagnosis of Amniotic Fluid samples
 - Leukaemia Cytogenetics
 - Research and Development skills
 - Audit skills

Within each module the trainee will gain the necessary skills to perform cell culture, chromosome analysis, FISH, molecular techniques, interpretation and reporting of results for each of the distinct sample types represented.  Each module ends with oral assessment by either internal or external assessors.

Much of the theory underpinning each module is taught over two week long residential courses.

All trainees must complete a research project as part of the Research and Development skills component and undertake a 4-week secondment to another cytogenetics laboratory.

The National Clinical Scientist Training Programme ends with a final assessment by two external assessors followed by award of the Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Cytogenetics (PCCC) to successful candidates.

All documents related to the National Clinical Scientist Training Programme are held here (ETC password required).