Applications open AHCS Equivalence Programmes External Examiner
AHCS is looking for a new External Examiner to review the Equivalence Programmes, including STP, HSS and PTP, and the Certificate of Competence, to replace Professor Chris Hopkins who has recently been appointed President of the AHCS. Please see the details regarding the role, as well as how to apply, below.
Role Description
Click here to read the full role descriptor for this role.
The role of the AHCS Equivalence Programmes External Examiner is:
- To act as the Academy’s External Examiner for the Scientific Training Programme (STP) and other Equivalence Programmes (such as Certificate of Competence (CoC), Practitioner Training Programme (PTP) and Higher Specialist Scientist (HSS))
- To participate fully in the AHCS annual quality review of the STP Certificate of Equivalence programme, providing an independent view on the processes that assures the quality of the programme. The activity will normally include the review of a sample of STP and other Equivalence applications and assessments; and the review of programme handbook, guidance documents, the draft Annual Quality Review Report, review training materials, and other documentation as requested.
- To provide informative comment to the AHCS Education Training & Standards Committee (ETSC) as to whether or not the STP Certificate of Equivalence programme continues to meet the Health and Care Professions Council’s (HCPC) Standards of Education and Training, and Standards of Proficiency for Clinical Scientists.
- To provide an annual External Examiner’s report in sufficient time for the ETSC to consider. Timelines will be agreed with AHCS ahead of the annual quality review process.
- To provide commentary on any developments to the STP Certificate of Equivalence Programme, the Certificate of Competence, PTP and HSS Equivalence Routes and such as changes in process or guidance documents.
Applicant Criteria
Essential:
- HCPC registered Clinical Scientist
- Experience of examining healthcare scientist training, such as STP, HSS and PTP
- Independent of the AHCS
- Knowledge and understanding of the requirements of the outcomes of the National School of Healthcare Science accredited Scientist Training Programme (STP)
- Competence and experience in one or more of the specialties covered by the programme
- Competence and experience relating to designing and operating a variety of assessment tasks appropriate to the subject and operating assessment procedures
- Familiarity with the standard to be expected of applicants to achieve the award that is to be assessed
- Awareness of current developments in the design and delivery of relevant STP curricula
- Is able to prepare succinct and focused reports
- Can meet agreed deadlines
- Active in any of the four UK home nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales
Desired:
- PhD or equivalent doctoral qualification
- Research active
- Sufficient standing, credibility and breadth of experience within the discipline to be able to command the respect of peers and, where appropriate, professional peers
- Background should preferably be in the area of Physiological Sciences
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for this role, please express you interest via email to and then kindly complete the application form linked below and return to by the set deadline.
All applications should address the key criteria, include a covering letter/email and a detailed CV.
Click here to download the application form
Deadline: 19th September 2025
Applications are reviewed against the selection criteria by the Academy and a recommendation for appointment taken to the Education, Training and Standards Committee (ETSC) for approval. Interviews will take place if there is more than one candidate who meets the selection criteria.
