Genomics Training for Biomedical Scientists UK: GTAC, Courses, and Career Opportunities

11 min read · Published: 2025-01-08 · Updated: 2026-03-12

Genomics Training for Biomedical Scientists UK: GTAC, Courses, and Career Opportunities

Genomics has become one of the fastest-growing areas of laboratory medicine in the UK, driven by the NHS Genomic Medicine Service and the legacy of the 100,000 Genomes Project. For biomedical scientists looking to move into this field, there are clear training pathways, dedicated courses, and expanding career opportunities. Understanding how to access genomics training and where it can take your career is increasingly important.

Genomics England and the NHS Genomic Medicine Service

The UK is a global leader in clinical genomics. Genomics England, established in 2013, delivered the 100,000 Genomes Project and continues to drive the integration of genomic data into patient care. Building on this, NHS England launched the NHS Genomic Medicine Service (GMS) to embed genomics into routine clinical practice.

The GMS operates through a network of seven Genomic Laboratory Hubs (GLHs) across England, each serving a defined population. These hubs are the primary employers of biomedical scientists working in genomics and include:

North Thames GLH (Great Ormond Street Hospital)
South Thames GLH (Guy's and St Thomas')
East GLH (Cambridge University Hospitals)
North West GLH (Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust)
Central and South GLH (Birmingham Women's and Children's)
South West GLH (North Bristol NHS Trust)
North East and Yorkshire GLH (Leeds Teaching Hospitals)

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland operate their own genomics services with similar structures.

The Genomics Training Academy (GTAC)

The Genomics Training Academy (GTAC), funded by Health Education England (now NHS England Workforce, Training and Education), provides specialist genomics education for the NHS workforce.

What GTAC Offers

Short courses covering topics such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), variant interpretation, bioinformatics, and clinical genomics applications
Blended learning combining online modules with face-to-face practical sessions
Specialty-specific training in areas including cancer genomics, rare disease, pharmacogenomics, and reproductive genomics
Resources for non-genetics professionals to build foundational genomics knowledge

GTAC courses are available to all NHS staff and are often free or subsidised. They are an excellent starting point for biomedical scientists who want to explore genomics before committing to a full postgraduate programme.

MSc Genomic Medicine Programmes

For a more comprehensive qualification, several UK universities offer MSc Genomic Medicine programmes. These are typically part-time to accommodate working professionals and cover:

Molecular genetics and genomic technologies
Bioinformatics and data analysis
Variant classification and interpretation
Clinical applications across specialties
Ethical, legal, and social implications of genomics

Notable programmes include those at the University of Manchester, University of Exeter, Imperial College London, and University of Glasgow. Many trusts will support applications through study leave and funding, particularly if you are working within or moving into a GLH.

The HEE Genomics Education Programme (GEP) has also developed a range of educational resources and supports the Scientist Training Programme (STP) in genomics.

How Biomedical Scientists Can Move into Genomics

Crossover Specialties

Several biomedical science specialties provide natural pathways into genomics:

Haematology: Molecular haematology already involves techniques such as PCR for BCR-ABL monitoring, JAK2 mutation testing, and increasingly NGS panels for myeloid malignancies
Molecular pathology: Direct overlap with genomic technologies and techniques
Microbiology: Whole genome sequencing (WGS) for outbreak investigation and antimicrobial resistance profiling
Histopathology: Molecular testing on tissue samples for targeted cancer therapies

Building Your Skill Set

To transition into genomics, focus on developing:

Molecular biology techniques: PCR, Sanger sequencing, NGS library preparation
Bioinformatics basics: Understanding of sequence alignment, variant calling, and database searching (ClinVar, gnomAD, COSMIC)
Variant interpretation: Classifying variants according to ACMG/ACGS guidelines
Quality management: ISO 15189 compliance for molecular and genomic testing

You do not need to become a bioinformatician, but a working understanding of how sequencing data is processed and analysed is essential for any biomedical scientist in a genomics laboratory.

Salary and Career Progression

Genomics roles for biomedical scientists are typically graded at:

Band 5 (£29,970-£36,483): Newly qualified BMS in a genomics laboratory, performing routine molecular testing
Band 6 (£37,338-£44,962): Specialist BMS with experience in NGS, variant analysis, or specific disease areas
Band 7 (£46,148-£52,809): Section lead or specialist scientist with advanced expertise, often responsible for service development and validation of new tests
Band 8a (£53,755-£60,504): Principal scientist or laboratory manager roles within GLHs

The Scientist Training Programme (STP) in genomics, managed through the National School of Healthcare Science, offers an alternative entry route for those with a relevant first degree who wish to train as a clinical scientist (Band 6 entry, progressing to Band 7 on completion).

Career Opportunities

The genomics workforce is expanding. Current and emerging roles include:

Genomic Scientist: Performing and interpreting genomic tests within a GLH
Bioinformatics Scientist: Developing and managing analysis pipelines (requires additional computational training)
Variant Scientist: Specialising in variant interpretation and classification
Genomic Counsellor/Associate: Supporting patients and families (requires specific genetic counselling training)
Research Scientist: Working at the interface of clinical service and research within organisations such as Genomics England

The NHS Long Term Workforce Plan recognises the need for significant expansion of the genomics workforce, creating opportunities for biomedical scientists willing to develop their skills in this area.

Key Points

The NHS Genomic Medicine Service operates through seven GLHs across England, all employing biomedical scientists
GTAC provides free or subsidised short courses in genomics topics, ideal for initial exploration
MSc Genomic Medicine programmes are available part-time at several UK universities
Haematology, molecular pathology, and microbiology provide natural crossover routes into genomics
Key skills to develop include NGS techniques, bioinformatics basics, and variant interpretation
Roles are available from Band 5 to Band 8a within GLHs, with an expanding workforce
The HEE Genomics Education Programme and Scientist Training Programme offer additional training and career routes

Genomics Training for Biomedical Scientists UK: GTAC, Courses, and Career Opportunities