Ophthalmic & Vision Sciences (Visual Perception and Psychophysics) [v1]

The programme has been developed to enable a selected cohort of clinical scientists to be trained to take on the role of a consultant clinical scientist. It is a programme that is both flexible and bespoke to the individual.

It includes the incorporation into the training programme of all or part of a professional doctorate award according to trainee previous experience and qualifications and comprising modules in:

• High level scientific and clinical knowledge
• Leadership and professionalism
• Research and innovation

On successful completion of the HSST and its underpinning doctoral level academic programme graduates will possess the essential knowledge, skills, experience and attributes required of a Consultant Clinical Scientist in the NHS and will:

• demonstrate practice that places the patient and the public at the centre of care, prioritising patient safety and dignity and reflecting NHS/health service values, the NHS Constitution and meets the professional standards defined by Good Scientific Practice;
• demonstrate systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of scientific and clinical knowledge which is at the forefront of healthcare science;
• possess a breadth of clinical and scientific knowledge across a range of related and relevant science specialties;
• demonstrate the general ability to conceptualise, design, lead and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or understanding at the forefront of healthcare science;
• demonstrate an advanced and detailed understanding of applicable methods for research, innovation and advanced academic enquiry;
• demonstrate the ability to create and interpret new knowledge, through original research or other advanced scholarship, of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend the forefront of the healthcare science/specialism, and merit publication;
• demonstrate advanced critical thinking with a sound grasp and application of research methodology which supports vision and innovation in the application of basic science to health and an effective understanding of leadership, NHS current policy, influencing and advanced communication skills;
• communicate clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences including patients and the public;
• demonstrate scientific and clinical leadership based on the continual advancement of their knowledge, skills and understanding through the independent learning required for continuing professional development.

Will be able to:

• make informed judgements on complex issues in specialist fields, often in the absence of complete data, and be able to communicate their ideas and conclusions clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences;
• deal with uncertainty;
• continue to engage in continuous personal and professional development, resulting in leading the development of new techniques, ensuring innovation and facilitation of transformational change in science and in the service through ideas or approaches that benefit the patient and NHS;
• engage with contemporary research and analysis as a basis for critical reflection on their own and others’ professional experience and work based practice.

Will have:

• the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment as a Consultant Clinical Scientist, which requires the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments leading and working within teams

A blend of methods is used to ensure effective capture of robust evidence relating to the three components of the HSST programme.

The components of the programme are:

• Acquisition and application of specialist scientific knowledge up to Consultant Clinical Scientist level.
• Mastery and practice of higher clinical and scientific skills, including professionalism, and the values, behaviours and attitudes expected of leaders in healthcare science.
• Ability to make a significant contribution to knowledge generation and innovation in healthcare science service and practice.

• Portfolio of workplace-based evidence
• Annual Review of Progression
• Multi Source Feedback
• Independent Assessment of Professional Skills (IAPS) – HSST Final Assessment

To gain entry on to the Higher Specialist Scientist Register you must demonstrate that you are able to practice within the 5 Domains:

• Domain One: Professional Practice
• Domain Two: Scientific Practice
• Domain Three: Clinical Practice
• Domain Four: Research, Development and Innovation
• Domain Five: Clinical Leadership

• Section A: Leadership and Professional Development (120 credits)
• Section B: Specialist Scientific Clinical Programme (180 credits)
• Section C: Research, Development and Innovation (240 credits)