Role Summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Clinical Fellow / TSC in Vitreoretinal Surgery at the West of England Eye Unit, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, to start in February 2026. This post is RCOphth approved and offers comprehensive training in the assessment and surgical management of retinal disorders, with a strong emphasis on developing independent surgical skills in vitreoretinal procedures.
The successful candidate will provide high-quality patient care and develop skills and expertise in ophthalmology, with a strong clinical acumen, outstanding communication skills and a genuine passion for patient care.
About the Role
For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.
More detail about the role
You will work closely with three vitreoretinal consultants: Mr Conor Ramsden, Mr Peter Simcock, and Mr Roland Ling, gaining high-volume surgical exposure, supported learning, and the chance to take a leading role in complex retinal care. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain broad-based experience in a busy and well-resourced teaching hospital environment.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work in a supportive and educational environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Join our team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
The fellowship is designed to prepare you for consultant-level practice with a sub-specialty interest in VR surgery. Training objectives include:
- Competency in vitrectomy and scleral buckling for retinal detachment
- Surgical management of macular holes and epiretinal membranes
- Mastery of indirect and endolaser retinal laser techniques
- Independent management of both emergency and elective surgical retina cases
- Understanding of evidence-based approaches to vitreoretinal conditions
Weekly activities include retinal theatres, clinics, fluorescein angiography meetings, and dedicated teaching sessions every Friday afternoon.
Working Pattern: Full time
Interview Date: To be confirmed
For further information please contact: Mr Conor Ramsden, Vitreoretinal Consultant on conor.ramsden@nhs.net or Lauren Tyrer, Operations Manager on lauren.tyrer@nhs.net
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
About Us
Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).
Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities.
Our values are at the heart of everything we do, click here to find out more
It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.
Benefits
Looking after you is important to us.
We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.
If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 34 days plus bank holidays depending on grade and years of service.
You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.
We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.
This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.
Salary is not the only financial benefit
You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including:
- National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
- Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter
- Car lease schemes.
- The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
- Cycle to work scheme
These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.
