Trust Fellow in Ophthalmology (Vitreo Retinal)

Job summary

We are seeking a Trust Ophthalmology Fellow to join our Acute District General Hospital team. This is a full-time, 12-month fixed-term post in Vitreoretinal. The role offers a broad range of general ophthalmology experience, including high-volume cataract surgery, and applicants must already be independent cataract surgeons. Previous Vitreoretinal experience is desirable.Applicants should hold, or be eligible for, full GMC registration and preferably the FRCOphth, MRCOphth, or equivalent. A minimum of four years postgraduate experience, including at least two years in ophthalmology at OST/SHO/higher level, is essential. Candidates should have completed at least 250 phacoemulsification procedures independently.As a senior member of the Trust, you will work closely with clinical and managerial colleagues to deliver high-quality patient care. Key objectives of the post include:o Ensuring the delivery of a first-class clinical serviceo Providing effective leadership within the specialtyo Supporting teaching, quality improvement, and researcho Working in accordance with Trust procedures and policieso Practising within contractual requirements and service planso Maintaining confidence in the Trust's strategic and business planso Demonstrating initiative, enthusiasm, and flexibility

Main duties of the job

The postholder will work under the supervision of Vitreoretinal consultants. The weekly timetable includes vitreoretinal and cataract theatre, vitreoretinal and casualty clinics and study/administrative time. There are no fixed on-call duties, but the postholder is expected to coordinate vitreoretinal emergencies in both clinic and theatre. Flexibility is essential, with a willingness to undertake additional duties out of hours or during unforeseen circumstances to support smooth departmental function.

Weekly department teaching takes place every Friday for medical, orthoptic, optometry and nursing staff. The postholder is expected to attend and contribute to teaching, offering both formal and informal supervision to junior colleagues through case-based discussions, journal clubs and vitreoretinal teaching. Further training will occur during clinical and theatre sessions with the Vitreoretinal Consultants. By the end of the fellowship, the postholder should have increased confidence in diagnosing and managing vitreoretinal disorders and emergencies, including medical and surgical care. Experience will include peri-operative management of retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, vitreous haemorrhage and other common conditions, alongside exposure to vitreoretinal theatre, laser procedures and intravitreal treatments. Increased independence in pre-operative planning, surgical decision-making and post-operative management.

About us

We take pride in placing people at the centre of everything we do, working together as a united team. Driven by a shared ambition to continually grow, develop, and learn, we recognise and value every contribution. By combining our experience and skills, we not only support our vibrant, diverse communities, but also support one another.

With a team of over 9,000 employees, we are proud to be the largest employer in Gloucestershire and rank among the top 10 largest Trusts in the South West region.By joining our Trust, you will benefit from an excellent package that includes exclusive benefits, flexible working opportunities and the chance to gain valuable experience in one or both of our innovative hospitals.

As well as generous annual leave allowance, you will have access to the excellent NHS pension scheme, competitive bank rates, discounts at local shops and restaurants, access to two on-site nurseries, discounted public transport, reward and recognition and a range of health and wellbeing initiatives to support you.

Details

Date posted

06 May 2026

Pay scheme

Hospital medical and dental staff

Grade

Doctor - other

Salary

Depending on experience Dependent on experience

Contract

Fixed term

Duration

12 months

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

318-26-VIT

Job locations

Cheltenham General Hospital

Cheltenham

GL53 7AN

For further information and to apply, click on the APPLY BUTTON at the bottom of this advert, then click on CONTINUE to view the supporting documents or apply online.