Why members love public engagement

Connecting people with biomedical science

Every year, IBMS members are encouraged to take part in public engagement activities in schools, hospitals, careers fairs and communities across the UK. Through these activities, they inspire future biomedical scientists, raise awareness of the profession and help people discover the science behind their healthcare.

Despite biomedical scientists and support staff being involved in almost every patient's healthcare journey, much of their work takes place in laboratories behind the scenes. Public engagement is an opportunity to shine a light on the profession, helping people understand the expertise behind laboratory medicine and the essential role of biomedical science in diagnosing disease, monitoring conditions and guiding treatment.

For many members, that's one of the most rewarding aspects of outreach.

Attending events reminds me how proud I am to be a biomedical scientist. They allow me to showcase our profession to aspiring scientists while also raising awareness of the vital role biomedical scientists play in patient care. With each event I support, my confidence in communicating, engaging with others and networking continues to grow.

Helen Markland

Senior Biomedical Scientist, UK Health Security Agency

Why get involved?

By taking part you will:

Inspire the next generation of biomedical scientists
Raise awareness of biomedical science and the profession
Help people understand the science behind their healthcare
Showcase the essential role biomedical scientists play in patient care
Improve understanding of laboratory medicine and diagnostics
Challenge misconceptions about biomedical science

Whether you have just an hour to spare a year or want to be involved in a large-scale event, every public engagement activity helps raise the profile of biomedical science and can make a lasting difference.

I’m involved because I love sharing knowledge with others. I particularly enjoy engaging with young people. Seeing their enthusiasm and excitement as they start to understand the topic brings me pure joy!

Lena Forsyth

PhD Student, Robert Gordon University

Benefits for everyone

Public engagement benefits everyone – including you.

Many IBMS members say it reminds them why they chose a career in biomedical science while helping them develop valuable professional skills and confidence.

Getting involved can help you:

Build confidence speaking to different audiences
Develop your communication and presentation skills
Gain experience in leadership, teamwork and networking
Support your Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Share your passion for biomedical science and inspire others.

The benefits are enormous. It not only promotes careers and supports workforce planning, but also shows people that a career in biomedical science is achievable and within their reach.

Dr Martin Khechara

Associate Professor for Engagement in STEM, University of Wolverhampton

Ways you can get involved

There are lots of ways to get involved, including:

Visit a school or college to talk about biomedical science careers
Support a careers fair or community event
Deliver activities using the Learning Lab or Space Lab VR
Support science festivals or public exhibitions
Open your laboratory to visitors
Deliver talks to community groups or local organisations.

Every activity, no matter how big or small, helps raise awareness of biomedical science and inspire future biomedical scientists.

My own journey into biomedical science has shown me how rewarding a career in healthcare can be, and I want to inspire others to explore opportunities they may never have considered.
Many people are surprised to discover just how important our profession is, and I love helping them appreciate the incredible impact biomedical scientists have on patient care. If I can help even one young person discover a passion for biomedical science, then I know my outreach has made a lasting impact.

Jean Wilson

Specialist Biomedical Scientist, NHS

Everything you need to get started

Whether you're planning your first public engagement activity or looking for new ideas, the IBMS has a wide range of resources to help members engage and inspire people of all ages. There are some resources available for non-members to download.

Explore our guidance, activity ideas and initiatives, including the Learning Lab and Space Lab VR. You'll also find downloadable resources, educational comics, promotional materials and giveaways to help make your events a success.

Whatever your experience, we're here to help you inspire others and champion biomedical science.