- Lecture
On October 9, 2026, at 11:15 a.m.
(L-1) An Update on Prosthetist/Epithetist Training in the
UK; An Opportunity For Overseas Graduates
Speaker: Jason Watson I Nottingham, UK
Summary:
Epithetist/Prosthetist training evolved in the UK in 2012 to a structured, post graduate science programme supported by the government. These changes were implemented when the government reviewed scientist training pathways in the NHS. The training historically occurred from within the laboratory system. Usually identifying a member of staff who wanted an opportunity to develop new skills, from a Dental Technology base, into Epithetist/Prosthetist roles. The new system is a structured, formal assessment based, funded (Health Department via Regional Health Boards) 3 year Masters (MSc) scientist training programme (STP). Based in a hospital, the trainees undertake 3 years of practical/clinical training, alongside their academic studies. Trainees have a ‘competency’ based training activity assessment system, similar to medical training in the UK. The manufacture and clinical care components are assessed by their NHS trainers, the academic research and knowledge assessed by their University. The structure of the programme will be outlined, our Nottingham experience to date, changes that are currently being implemented and possible opportunities for overseas graduates to apply for the programme.
Speaker:
- Jason Watson
- Bio:
I trained in Sheffield (1991-2002) and now lead the unit at the regional oncology and major trauma centre in Nottingham University Hospitals Trust (2002-). I have been involved in the development of additive manufacture and 3D printing since 2004. I was successful in obtaining a grant for developing 3D design tools in facial prosthetics in 2005 (£900k) and was the first to introduce in-house 3D printing into a UK hospital (2008). - I have supported the wider profession on many national training and development initiatives and have been on the professional body council in the UK, the IMPT, for 16 years in various roles including Chairman. I had the great pleasure in accepting an honorary membership of the IASPE for my numerous contributions to IASPE events over the years from Professor Ferderspiel.
- I was part of the writing team for the MSc in Reconstructive Science (2010-12) and helped finalise the Scientist Training Programme in the UK. I was the Lead Writer for the Clinical Doctorate in Reconstructive science, the Consultant Training pathway in Reconstructive Science (2016-17). I have published 25+ peer reviewed articles and book chapters. I was the first Maxillofacial Prosthetist to give the prestigious Presidents Lecture at the British Association of Oral & Maxilofacial Surgeons Congress in 2021. I was the first UK Maxillofacial Prosthetist to pass the new assessment for Clinical Scientists and then the Consultant Clinical Scientist pathway in Reconstructive Science. Only 2 UK Maxillofacial Prosthetists have managed to get through both of these processes.
- I lecture at national and international courses for surgeons and epithetist/prosthetist/scientists.. More recently I led the push to broaden our ‘base’ from a purely Dental Technology focus to a wider science and engineering base. I believe this is the future, we must all adapt to changes to meet the requirements of our patients and service users. That includes a broader, a digitally focused workforce with a variety of skills, compared to our traditional routes.
Facility / Institute / Clinic:
- Nottingham University Hospitals Trust
- Queens Medical Centre
- Maxillofacial Department
- Nottingham UK
Shipping “Weisse Flotte”
At the end of the congress, we will enjoy an enjoyable evening together on board of the “Weisse Flotte”.
Only a few tickets left
