What was your first job after graduating?

My first job was a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) at Blackheath Hospital. At the time, I had not realised that in order to work as a Biomedical Scientist, I had to be Health and Care Professions Council (HSPC) registered. In order to do that, I had to complete a portfolio as a Trainee Biomedical Scientist. By going on the NHS jobs website and looking at other laboratory-based roles, I found the MLA position.

This job was exciting, as I was able to be in the lab booking patient samples and although I was not directly involved in sample analysis, this opportunity exposed me to a wide range of types of testing. It prompted me to research how each test was used to help diagnosis and the significance of the results.

What is your current role?

I am a Biomedical Scientist in Reference Biochemistry with a specialism in toxicology at King’s College Hospital. My responsibilities include maintenance, troubleshooting and analysis of patient blood and urine for therapeutic drug monitoring, as well as drug abuse screening.

How has studying a Life Sciences degree prepared you for your career? 

My degree and the University laboratory lessons were invaluable in preparing me for my career. They gave me a foundation and taught me the theory behind what are now very practical aspects of my job.

Outside of my course, I attended careers fairs organised by the Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, where I was able to talk to others in the industry that I was hoping to join after graduating. These fairs introduced me to the various avenues that I could go down such as becoming a medical sales representative, crime scene investigator, environmental engineer and a plethora of research options.

What are your greatest achievements so far?

My greatest achievement so far is completing my specialist portfolio in Biochemistry. The portfolio was a significantly larger piece of work than my University dissertation and I am very proud of it. The knowledge I gained while producing my portfolio carries into my role as a Biomedical Scientist.

After graduation, when I became HCPC registered, I become a STEM ambassador. This role involves speaking at university events and fairs for secondary school children to help break stereotypes about scientists. It is a role I really enjoy, as I get to show younger people that science is more than just the physics, chemistry and biology that you’re taught in schools.

In the future, I hope to complete my MSc in Biomedical Science, followed by a PhD to create a significant piece of work that contributes towards an advance in science, however small.

What does diversity in Life Sciences mean to you?

Diversity in Life Sciences means breaking down the stereotypical views held by young people about those in science. It means opening doors to more people and making Life Sciences an inclusive field where people from varied backgrounds with the same passion can be held to the same respect.

I feel it is important to foster diversity, as it brings more minds together to tackle challenges from a variety of viewpoints.

I strongly believe more women and people of BAME backgrounds should celebrate being part of the Life Sciences industry and I encourage anyone with a passion for Life Sciences or even a curiosity to explore this avenue as there are many different careers paths that could be suited to you.

Explore your career options.