Visa Note
This position includes a certificate of sponsorship for eligible international candidates. However, applicants must verify their specific visa eligibility directly with the employer. While sponsorship is available, final approval depends on meeting UK visa requirements and the employer’s internal assessment process.
About the Role
Applications are invited for a 12-month Head & Neck Fellowship in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW). This position is a replacement for the current fellow who will be leaving in January 2026. The fellowship has been successfully established for over 10 years and can be tailored to meet the training needs of the successful applicant.
Why This Fellowship?
The post is designed for experienced clinicians with a strong foundation in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. It has historically attracted overseas trainees who have completed their core training in their home country and wish to enhance their expertise with high-quality Head & Neck Surgery experience. Our unit provides the full spectrum of Head & Neck Surgery, including aerodigestive tract mucosal disease, skin cancer, salivary gland and thyroid surgery, and microvascular free flap reconstruction.
Working Environment
The fellowship is ideally suited to dual-qualified trainees; however, depending on demonstrable training and surgical experience, it may be adapted for singly qualified applicants. The role includes participation in a non-resident Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery on-call rota, covering facial trauma, orofacial infections, and inpatient care for complex Head & Neck cancer patients.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will join the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery department and play an active role in the management of head and neck oncology patients. Responsibilities include delivering clinical sessions focused on diagnostics, surgical planning, operative management, and post-operative care. You will participate in multidisciplinary head and neck cancer clinics and MDT meetings, assisting with assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for oncology patients.
Clinical Experience
The fellowship offers extensive clinical experience, including performing and assisting in major head and neck resections and reconstructions under supervision. You will provide perioperative care and follow-up for oncology patients. The unit undertakes the full spectrum of Head & Neck Surgery, providing a comprehensive learning environment for international medical professionals.
About the Employer
University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) is one of the largest acute Trusts in the country, bringing together a combined workforce of over 13,000 staff and over 100 different clinical services across 10 different sites. We serve a core population of more than 500,000 people across South West England. UHBW has been rated by the CQC as ‘Good’ overall, and our staff are proud to deliver excellent care.
Research and Innovation
As a forward-thinking multi-award winning Trust and a digital exemplar committed to improving patient care, our world-leading research and innovations are having a positive local and global impact. Join us and contribute to cutting-edge medical practices while advancing your surgical skills in a supportive, internationally recognized environment.
Certificate of Sponsorship
We are pleased to offer a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible international candidates. This sponsorship is essential for obtaining a UK work visa. Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.
Essential Qualifications
Applicants must have demonstrable skills in written and spoken English, adequate to enable effective communication about medical topics with patients and colleagues as assessed by the General Medical Council. You must also have at least 12 months experience in Core Surgical Training, or equivalent by the start date of the post.
Professional Registration
You must hold MBBS or equivalent medical qualification, Full GDC registration or a fully UK registerable dental qualification by the advertised post start date. Additionally, you must be eligible for full registration with, and hold a current licence to practise from the GMC by the start date, and be eligible to work in the UK.
Desired Experience
While not essential, evidence of relevant academic and research achievements such as degrees, prizes, awards, distinctions, publications, presentations, or other achievements is highly valued. We also look for evidence of participation in risk management and/or clinical/laboratory research.
Essential Skills
The ability to prioritize clinical need is essential. You should demonstrate appropriate technical and clinical competence and evidence of the development of diagnostic skills and clinical judgement. Logbook documentation of surgical exposure to date is required, along with the capacity to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team.
NHS Values
It is crucial that candidates understand, respect, and demonstrate the values of the NHS, including: everyone counts; improving lives; commitment to quality of care; respect and dignity; working together for patients; and compassion. These values underpin all aspects of our healthcare delivery.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, you must submit your application through the NHS Jobs website. The application deadline is 07 January 2026. Ensure you include all relevant documentation, including proof of qualifications, professional registration, and evidence of English language proficiency if applicable.
Application Checklist for International Candidates
When applying, international candidates should include: current CV, copies of medical qualifications, proof of English language proficiency if required, evidence of current professional registration, and a personal statement explaining how your experience aligns with this fellowship and your career goals in the UK.
Contact Information
For questions about the job, contact Charlotte Kelsall, Assistant General Manager – Dental Services, at [email protected]. For specific inquiries about the visa sponsorship process, please mention this in your initial contact.
Life in Bristol
Bristol offers an exceptional quality of life with a vibrant cultural scene, excellent educational institutions, and beautiful green spaces. Our hospitals are spread across Bristol and Weston, offering the best of both worlds – city living within a stone’s throw of the countryside or beside the seaside, both with easy access to all that the South West has to offer.
Professional Development
UHBW is committed to the professional development of all staff. As an international fellow, you will have access to ongoing training opportunities, mentorship programs, and resources to support your integration into the NHS and enhance your surgical expertise in a world-class healthcare environment.
Equal Opportunities
UHBW is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. As an equal opportunities employer actively working towards a diverse workforce, we aim to recruit and retain a workforce which represents the rich diversity of the local population at all levels.
Next Steps
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which may be conducted virtually for international applicants. Successful candidates will receive detailed guidance on the visa application process and relocation support. We look forward to welcoming skilled international professionals to our team.
