Higher Specialist Scientist Training

For any prospective Higher Specialist Scientist (HSS), there are two routes which are available 

1. HSST programme - whilst not directly funded in Scotland, entry onto the HSST programme requires registration either as a Clinical Scientist or as a Biomedical Scientist. 

2. Equivalence route - This route is overseen by the AHCS. To be eligible for HSS Equivalence, applicants must

• Be registered as a Clinical Scientist, and
• Have extensive professional experience, typically over five years, at a senior level in a healthcare or relevant scientific setting, such as working as a lead scientist, head of department, or leading in education or research

Training should be aligned with the high-level themes of Higher Specialist Scientific Training for the specialism.

Although NES sponsorship of programmes is currently closed, we encourage acquisition of a National Training Number (NTN). For candidates near completion we offer support for the AHCS equivalence fee.

More information on the equivalence routes can be found in our Equivalence Routes and Support page.