Job Description

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.



Please see below for detailed job description of the role.



We're inviting applications for two exciting opportunities at the Southampton Eye Unit, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, a Senior Vitreoretinal Fellow (12 month fixed term) and a Junior Vitreoretinal Fellow (12 month fixed term). It will provide you with a broad grounding in the diagnosis and management of retinal diseases. We're seeking a driven, compassionate ophthalmologist with a keen interest in subspecialty excellence and a collaborative mindset.



You'll join a vibrant, forward-thinking team at University Hospital Southampton Hospitals, where innovation, mentorship, and camaraderie fuel our commitment to delivering outstanding care to patients. You will have the opportunity to attend 3-4 vitreoretinal theatre sessions per week and to be trained by three consultant Vitreoretinal surgeons. There is an active academic interest within the department and you would be allowed to do clinical research.



The Vitreoretinal team consists of 3 Consultant ophthalmologists, supported by 2 senior fellows and a trainee. The service has recently expanded with offsite virtual VR clinics and has a high throughput of VR surgical cases with plans to start operating in more off-site locations.



As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to. UHS is rated 'Good' by the CQC and in the latest national NHS Staff Survey, we were in the top 10 acute trusts for staff engagement and for staff recommending the hospital as a place to work or receive care.



We support flexible working and will consider requests taking into account the needs of the service. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.



Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 20% lower than London and 14 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.



To manage the VR theatre diary overseeing all of the emergency cases. To attend theatre and clinic sessions alongside the consultants. To provide a subspecialty opinion to other colleagues within the department. To actively participate in research. To participate on the general on call for ophthalmology.

For an overview of the position, please refer to the attached and Person Specification document. This includes a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities, role expectations, and the qualifications we are looking for. It outlines the essential criteria for the role and is designed to support you in preparing your application by helping you evaluate how your skills, experience, and professional background align with the requirements of the role.



ADDITIONAL INFORMATION



Appointment will be made under local contractual terms and conditions of service for Trust appointed (non-training fellow doctors and dentists). Applicants requiring Skilled Worker sponsorship should ensure they meet the Home Office application criteria prior to submitting an application.



Successful candidates will have an educational framework equivalent to training grade doctors, and there will be a named educational supervisor assigned at the start of the post. The opportunity for Continued Professional Development (CPD) is highly supported and encouraged by the Trust, with options available to take study leave.



Grades for Trust appointed (non-training) fellows will be paid a basic salary at a nodal pay point linked to the grade, at the rate set out in the National Medical and Dental pay circular. Basic salary plus any additional remuneration (as applicable) for hours set out in the doctors work schedule (e.g. additional hours, weekend allowance, and any hours which attract enhanced pay)



Senior Fellow salary will be assessed based on experience and skills. Eligibility criteria for appointment to a Nodal Point 5;

Have a minimum of 6 years of Specialty training Hold relevant higher specialty exam (e.g FRCP, FRCA, FRCS) A portfolio of evidence that demonstrates they meet the criteria for progression (in line with the Curriculum for the speciality similar to deanery trainee)

Proposed interview date:

10th December 2025



This vacancy closes on or before 5th November 2025