Joanna Andrew receives two honours

Joanna was elected at the IFBLS General Assembly of Delegates (GAD), held alongside the 36th World Congress of Biomedical Laboratory Science in Chiba, Japan.

The IFBLS brings together biomedical laboratory science associations internationally and works to increase the recognition and visibility of the profession around the world.

Member associations are able to nominate candidates to serve on the Board of Directors, with representatives elected by delegates at the General Assembly. Joanna will serve a two-year term on the Board.

Speaking about her election, Joanna said:

I am delighted to be elected to the Board and I look forward to supporting the IFBLS in its mission to increase the recognition and visibility of biomedical laboratory science across the globe.

This new role also aligns with the IBMS strategy in building and developing for the future, promoting our profile through public engagement and cooperating with colleagues internationally.

Global challenges for biomedical laboratory science

Joanna's election took place during the 36th World Congress of Biomedical Laboratory Science at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

Under the theme Bridge to the Future of BLS Around the World, the Congress brought together biomedical laboratory scientists to discuss shared challenges and developments affecting the profession internationally.

Sessions explored advancing technology and artificial intelligence, workforce challenges, environmental sustainability and emerging infectious diseases.

Joanna highlighted a session examining Japan's disaster support system and the role of biomedical laboratory scientists in supporting point-of-care testing during emergencies.

She said:

I particularly enjoyed the talk on Japan's disaster support system and the role of BLSs in supporting POCT, for example DVT screening and infectious disease screening in disasters such as earthquakes which impact Japan.

The subject was a timely one for Joanna, who experienced an earthquake during her visit to Japan.

Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists

Joanna has also been awarded an Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath).

Reflecting on the honour, Joanna said:

What an honour and a privilege to be awarded honorary fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists... It's so important to have strong links between Institute of Biomedical Science and Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) vital for the future of laboratory medicine.

The recognition also highlights the importance of strong links between the IBMS and RCPath in supporting the future of laboratory medicine.

Joanna is an IBMS Past President and Network Lead for Blood Sciences at Scarborough, Hull, York Pathology Service (SHYPS), part of York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Her election to the IFBLS Board and Honorary Fellowship of RCPath reflect her continued contribution to the profession, both internationally and through collaboration across laboratory medicine in the UK.