Summary

I graduated from the Biomedical Science BSc (hons) course at the University of Portsmouth in 2003. From here I started my professional career as a Biomedical Scientist with NHS Blood and Transplant (formerly the national blood service NBS). Here I was a trainee and became a qualified member of staff, where I rotated around the centre learning about blood product production, testing, red cell immunohaematology and issuing products to hospitals. 

I then moved into a role within NHSBT in the Steve Mills Stem Cell Laboratory and undertook an MSc in Haematology at the University of Westminsterduring this time. After completion of my MSc I moved from NHSBT to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).

At GOSH I learned more about stem cell transplantation (bone marrow transplantation) and its role in paediatric patient care. This was particularly challenging as many patinet had highly complex / rare medical considerations to contend with.

In 2014 I returned to NHSBT in Southampton to head up a new project to start the freezing (cryopreservation) of ovarian tissue for women and girls who are about to undergo cancer treatment. After many years within the NHS I felt I wanted a new challenge and was enjoying training and educating more and more so I took up a position as a specialist in transfusion science with the University of Portsmouth.