The Royal College of Pathologists is a professional membership organisation. Since its establishment in 1962, the College has played a crucial role in advancing the field of pathology through education, advocacy and the promotion of high standards in pathology practice. Our membership predominantly comprises pathologists and affiliates working across the UK and internationally.
Working together with our members, we pursue our collective vision to develop and support excellence in pathology around the world.
Our mission statements
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Advance the science and practice of pathology.
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Further public education in the field of pathology.
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Promote study, research and innovation in pathology and disseminate results.
Our organisational values
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Teamwork – we achieve excellence by working together and valuing the diversity of all people we work with.
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Service – we support members to deliver the best patient care.
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Ambition – we aspire to provide the best quality services and lead innovation for pathology.
What we do
We deliver several key services that develop and support excellence in pathology around the world.
Our members are at the core of everything that we do. We aim to build a strong community, to which every member feels proud that they belong. As part of our mission, we:
- lead excellence in pathology practice, producing professional guidance that sets the standard of care across the profession
- deliver the highest standards of pathology education and training to consistently improve patient care and safety
- support you in your continuing professional development (CPD) by providing guidance, advice and a bespoke CPD portfolio
- advocate for the pathology workforce, lobbying for policies and funding that benefit our members and advance the profession
- collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, both in the UK and internationally, on projects that improve the quality of pathology training and service provision
- work with our members to run programmes that inspire the next generation to study science and join the profession
- strive to be a well-resourced, sustainable and inclusive organisation, and to ensure equity, diversity and inclusion in all that we do
- champion environmental sustainability through our carbon reduction plan and net zero commitment
- are focused on delivering digital transformation to improve College efficiency and better support our membership.
Who our members are
We are a diverse community of professionals united by an interest in contributing to, and advancing, the field of pathology.
Most of our members are pathologists working in hospitals, laboratories, universities and other workplaces across the UK and internationally. Our membership also includes affiliate members, such as clinical scientists, research academics, medical examiners and medical examiner officers.
We welcome anyone with a professional interest in pathology to join us. Please see 'How to join the College' to see the best option for you.
