Modernising Scientific Careers: the UK way forward

The Institute's Statement

The Modernising Scientific Careers: the UK Way Forward policy document has now been published and builds on the 'Next Steps' consultation document of November 2008. Its position has been informed by general views expressed in the consultation process and the subsequent deliberative events, and it sets out the direction of travel for the project. Although this is a UK wide policy document each of the four UK countries will have their own implementation plans which will be published separately.

The Institute used the consultation as an opportunity to raise its concerns over the structure of the MSC project in general and specifically in relation to biomedical scientists. The clear and valid points made were based on the experience of a major, mature regulated profession with a defined education pathway that produces individuals fit for purpose. The importance of these points and the concerns about the potential for service destabilisation, should the biomedical science profession and its career structure be dismantled, have not been given particular consideration.

Such are the Institute's concerns in relation to biomedical scientists, their HPC registration and protected title, the Council has felt compelled to write directly to ministers to highlight the potential consequences to service delivery and patient safety. These concerns will now form the basis of detailed Council discussions to determine the best way forward to participate in the project and work with the MSC team to achieve an outcome that is of benefit to patients, service and the profession.

A detailed Council response will be issued in due course.

9 March 2010

Further information

Modernising Scientific Careers: The UK Way Forward

Modernising Scientific Careers: all links, IBMS statements and documents

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