Find UK courses - part time courses, undergraduate, postgraduate courses

What would you like to learn?

* mandatory
Advanced search Find a course provider

Anatomical Pathology Technician

Interested in Anatomical Pathology Technician? Click on the links below.

Anatomical Pathology Technician

Anatomical Pathology Technician Career Details

Anatomical pathology technologists (APTs) support pathologists during post-mortem examinations, which involve examining and dissecting the body, removing and weighing organs, and taking samples for laboratory analysis.

APTs assist pathologists by passing instruments such as scalpels, recording their findings, performing special techniques such as spinal cord removal, and weighing the organs as they are taken out. At the end of the post-mortem the body will be reconstructed, organs replaced and the body cleaned ready for release to the undertakers for burial or cremation. Technologists highly experienced in all aspects of forensic procedure may assist forensic pathologists examining murder victims.

In addition to post-mortem work, APTs are responsible for the day-to-day running of the mortuary service. Their duties include keeping accurate administrative records, receiving sudden deaths, placing the deceased into cold storage units, liaising with doctors, police, coroner's office staff and funeral directors, and providing information and support to the bereaved.

Working Environment

APTs work up to 40 hours a week; shifts and on-call duties may be required.

For post-mortem work APTs wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves, a theatre gown, visor and boots. APTs need to be able to cope with unpleasant conditions.

Anatomical Pathology Technician Related Skills

As an anatomical pathology technologist, you should:
  • have tact and sensitivity when dealing with bereaved relatives
  • have a mature and responsible attitude to work
  • have good verbal communication skills
  • be physically fit, able to lift heavy items and stand for long periods
  • be computer literate
  • have a genuine interest in science, and how the body works
  • be health and safety conscious
  • be methodical and able to pay attention to detail.

Anatomical Pathology Technician Career Opportunities

Most anatomical pathology technologists work in the NHS, but there are opportunities with local authority run public mortuary facilities. Currently there are more applicants than vacancies.

There is an established career structure for APTs, however, these vary throughout the UK.

APTs with sufficient experience and the RIPH Diploma, may apply for advanced technical work or managerial posts. Many experienced APTs will be involved in training other healthcare professionals.

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Anatomical Pathology Technician related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

Not quite sure about a career as a Anatomical Pathology Technician? Try our step-by-step career guide to reaching your chosen career.

Career Courses

Not quite qualified to be a Anatomical Pathology Technician? Take a look at Postgraduate Anatomical Pathology Technician courses, Undergraduate Anatomical Pathology Technician courses, our course browses or use our search form and find courses which will help you on your chosen career path.