President’s Prize winners 2025

Muna Hanan Ougana

Anglia Ruskin University

Muna on being awarded the prize:

It was an honour to receive the 2025 IBMS President's Prize. I thoroughly enjoyed my degree and appreciated the wide range of modules on offer. In particular I enjoyed Current Advances in Biomedical Science which allowed me to gain a deeper insight into new developments and techniques in the field.

I also found my research project on the use of cloves as an antibiotic resistance breaker to be incredibly rewarding. I would like to thank my tutor, Professor Chris Parris, and my supervisor, Dr Clett Erridge, for their unwavering support.

I am now completing a masters in Biomolecular Science at the University of Cambridge, focusing on the role of pyroptosis in vaccinia infection."

Mariella Gonsalves

Aston University

Mariella Gonsalves was awarded the IBMS President’s Prize in recognition of her academic performance, achieving a first-class result.

As part of her degree, Mariella completed a placement year at the Dubrowsky Lab at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, where she worked on musculoskeletal cancer research and contributed to ongoing studies. Her work included investigating the therapeutic potential of gallium-doped bioglasses in bone cancer treatment. Building on her hospital placement experience, her final-year project expanded this research by analysing the effects of gallium-doped bioglass on both mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and cancer cell populations in co-culture models, evaluating sustained selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells while assessing the preservation of MSC differentiation capacity. 

Mariella is now preparing to pursue either a PhD or a Graduate-entry Medicine. Regardless of the path she chooses, Mariella intends to remain actively involved in biomedical research, with the goal of contributing to innovations that bridge the gap between laboratory science and patient care.

Rose Andersson

Atlantic Technological University

Rose commenting on receiving the prize:

I am honoured to receive the 2025 IBMS President's Prize Award at Atlantic Technological University, a recognition that reflects the hard work and commitment that I maintained throughout my degree. I would like to sincerely thank my family, friends, lecturers and supervisors who supported, guided and encouraged me throughout my degree. 

Practice placement at University Hospital Galway (UHG) was one of the highlights of my degree as I gained invaluable experience across all laboratory disciplines. My final-year research project was completed in the Haematology Department at UHG which strengthened my independent research and practical skills.

I am currently working as a Medical Scientist in the Haematology Department at UHG, continuing to build on my knowledge and practical skills. In the future, l intend to pursue a master’s degree to further advance my career in medical science.

Marie-Claire Barazzone

University of Brighton

Commenting on her receiving the award, Marie-Claire said: 

I am profoundly honoured to receive the IBMS President’s Prize 2025, a testament to the passion and curiosity that fuelled my journey in Biomedical Science at the University of Brighton. My fascination with the microbial world was a driving force, especially the concept that ancient bacteria evolved to become the powerhouses of our cells, a fact that continually deepens my appreciation for the complexity of life. This led me to a placement year in the Microbiology Laboratory at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, allowing me to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world patient care.

A true highlight of the degree was my research project, investigating the effects of curcumin on reactive oxygen species and insulin secretion in beta pancreatic cells. This project allowed me to combine my love for the laboratory with a deep dive into a topic close to my heart, reinforcing my passion for discovery and precision.

Currently, I am completing my HCPC registration to become a biomedical scientist. My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD to explore how the microbiome ecosystems influence disease and wellness. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and the opportunities that have shaped me. With this foundation, I am eager to contribute to the future of science and make a tangible difference in patient care and public health.

Aaliya Javed Sheikh

University of Central Lancashire

Moyosore Yusuf Kareem

University of Derby

Moyosore Yusuf Kareem was awarded the IBMS President’s Prize for achieving the highest academic distinction in BSc (H) Biomedical Science at the University of Derby.

His final-year research project focused on the genomic analysis of DNA damage repair markers in triple-negative breast cancer, aiming to classify cases into subtypes to inform therapeutic strategies. This work reflects his strong analytical and research capabilities.

Moyosore now intends to pursue postgraduate studies with a focus on disease mechanisms and translational science to contribute to advances in biomedical research.

Emmanuella Patience Bawuah

University of Essex:

Avni Ajit

University of Gloucestershire

Avni on what receiving the prize meant: 

I chose to study Biomedical Science for my undergraduate degree because it combined my interest in medicine and disease without the need to pursue a medical degree. Throughout my course, I really enjoyed learning about a range of topics, especially haematology, nutrition and epidemiology. I had always known that I wanted to complete a placement year in the NHS, as I felt it would give me a wide range of practical skills and real insight into what it is like to work as a biomedical scientist. It also gave me the opportunity to complete my IBMS registration portfolio.

For my placement, I worked in haematology, which I really enjoyed as no two days were the same and there was always something new to learn. It also felt rewarding knowing that the work I was doing contributed to patient care.

One part of my placement that I particularly enjoyed was rotating from routine haematology into blood transfusion. I spent two months in blood transfusion, where I completed my registration portfolio project. My project involved verifying a new piece of equipment used to scan blood grouping cards, aimed at reducing the risk of human error when interpreting results. I found the project really interesting, and the blood transfusion team were very supportive throughout.

When I returned to university for my final year, I completed my dissertation - a meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of tranexamic acid and platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of melasma. Completing my dissertation, along with my final-year modules, strengthened my interest in epidemiology. This has led me to pursue an MSc in Epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, which I am really enjoying so far

Kalvinder Singh

University of Greenwich

Commenting on receiving the award, Kalvinder said:

Studying Biomedical Science at the University of Greenwich was a profoundly enriching and rewarding experience. The course was exceptional at ensuring that solid theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills are aligned with current research and industry standards.

What made the course specifically outstanding at Greenwich was the excellent teaching delivered by subject specialists who had themselves come from successful careers in biomedical science. Both their passion and expertise facilitated an engaging learning environment that was tremendously supportive and academically rigorous, producing the best possible graduates.

A highlight of my degree, which I remember very fondly, was my final year research project. My project focused on measuring extracellular IL-10 concentrations in astrocytoma cells following infection with Leishmania, using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The investigation explored the immunomodulatory response of glial cells to parasitic infection, with a particular interest in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The project allowed me to develop both my practical research skills and hone my data analysis and scientific communication skills. Both of these are essential skills needed when working as a biomedical scientist.

Studying Biomedical Science has opened up many pathways, thanks to the strong scientific foundation and transferable skills gained through the programme. The degree has equipped me with the skills needed to pursue a master’s degree.

Jolynar Majdi Izzat Matar

Gulf Medical University

Jolynar on being awarded the prize: 

Winning the IBMS President’s Prize is one of my proudest achievements to date. It stands as a meaningful recognition of the hard work and dedication I invested throughout my four years of undergraduate study.

The sleepless nights and long hours spent in the lab were not only worth it, they shaped who I am today and continue to guide the path of my career.

I am deeply grateful to my family, especially my mother and father, for their unwavering support and belief in me. I would also like to thank my university and professors for their guidance and mentorship throughout this journey. Receiving this prize is a truly rewarding way to close this chapter of my life.

Shenan Vilochana Ranasinghe

University of Hertfordshire

Commenting on receiving the award, Shenan said:

First and foremost, receiving this award from the IBMS is an absolute honour. This achievement was made possible through hard work, resilience, and most importantly, motivation to achieve more, which has laid the foundations for my success. Reflection and self-improvement were definitely key to achieving the most throughout this degree. 

This award and my first-class degree certainly wouldn't have been possible without the support of my family and friends, the wonderful staff, lecturers, and my tutors at the University of Hertfordshire, who pushed me to new heights and enabled my fantastic progress.

I can confidently say the entire programme was enthralling. Blood Sciences, Genes and Genomes, and Cellular and Molecular Pathology particularly stood out to me, deepening my appreciation for the human body's complexity. A standout highlight of my academic journey was my research project in the application of a novel drug called SHG24 against brain cancer, which involved the use of cell culture and bioinformatics. This project enhanced my critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analytical skills and allowed me to explore significant real-world implications. 

As I look ahead to the future, I am excited to enhance my knowledge and understanding further as I undertake an MSc in Cancer and Molecular and Cellular Biology at Queen Mary University in a bid to make a meaningful contribution to the cancer research field

Megan Roberts

University of Hull

Megan graduated her BSc. (Hons.) Biomedical Science degree with an excellent average of 74%.  Megan has been an engaged and committed student from her first year.  She was a course representative and a well-liked member of the student cohort.  Megan completed her independent research project with Prof. John Greenman and received an outstanding grade of 81%. 

Megan is continuing in the Greenman laboratory and undertaking a fully funded Master's by Research, continuing on with some of the core themes from her undergraduate project – developing microfluidic devices as a scaffold to test cytokine production and release on various cancer scaffolds following treatment with pharmacological compounds.  We are so pleased to see Megan furthering her career in Biomedical Science research.

Jun Hong Eng

IMU University

"I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to be awarded the IBMS President’s Prize 2025. This award is not only an acknowledgement of the dedication and effort I have invested in my studies over the past three years, but also a motivation for me to further commit myself to the scientific community as a biomedical scientist.

During my time at IMU University, I greatly enjoyed the lectures integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiences, the painstaking yet rewarding final year project and two meaningful apprenticeships in both diagnostic and research laboratories.

On top of that, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my lecturers for their constant guidance, as well as to my friends and family for their unwavering encouragement and support. "

Reanne Dsouza

Kingston University:

Reanne, commenting on the award, said:

One of the things I enjoyed most about studying Biomedical Science was its diversity, from developing practical laboratory skills to critically analysing the latest research developments. I also valued the continuous opportunities presented to learn new skills throughout the course.

Using data analysis tools such as Jamovi was an integral part of the meta-analysis in my dissertation, allowing me to become proficient in handling complex datasets and interpreting statistical results. This experience also deepened my appreciation for the crucial role evidence-based research plays in shaping public health.

Additionally, I greatly valued the collaborative nature of the programme, including group projects and being selected as an Academic Mentor for two years, where I was given the opportunity to support fellow students in breaking down complex concepts, navigating challenging topics, and preparing for exams.

Moving forward, I am particularly interested in the fields of bioinformatics and genomics, especially how advancing technologies will shape precision medicine. The potential to process complex data to personalise healthcare and improve patient outcomes truly interests me. I aspire to contribute to this rapidly evolving area by developing tools and approaches that make healthcare more accurate, accessible, and effective.

Alicia Pastor Garcia

Leeds Beckett University

Commenting on the prize, Alicia said: 

My fascination with human physiology and pathophysiology has driven my academic journey. Completing my degree has provided a strong foundation, equipping me with critical thinking skills and technical expertise. As a mature student, this achievement represents the result of a second chance.

Looking back, my secret has been simple: aim higher, even towards what may seem impossible. Since I returned to education, every goal I have set has been achieved with determination, resilience, and purpose. It has not been easy, but step by step, I have arrived here, proud to call myself an Applied Biomedical Scientist.

Studying at Leeds Beckett University has been a fulfilling and transformative experience. Starting during the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges, marked by uncertainty and reduced social interaction. Yet, in my second year, I was honoured with the Dean’s Prize for Excellence in Biomedical Sciences, which gave me both validation and direction.

My third year brought personal growth, confidence, and endless questions, which led to my placement at HMDS, where I began, and continue, to develop professionally. During this time, I acquired comprehensive knowledge of medical pathophysiology, including histological sample processing, tissue identification using microscopy, and the application of various staining techniques, as well as their clinical significance in patient care.

The final year was decisive. I was invited to share my placement experience with two classes full of young students facing uncertain futures. It was a powerful moment that made me reflect on my own journey and wonder whether I had something to offer as a future educator.

For my dissertation, I conducted independent research that opened a door I had never considered before: a future in academia and scientific discovery. Until then, I had envisioned a career in Histopathology. However, working with platelets and endothelial cells sparked a new interest that changed my perspective completely. Through this research, I gained valuable hands-on experience in laboratory techniques such as platelet isolation and cell culture, while also developing analytical and problem-solving skills crucial for addressing complex scientific questions.

These experiences have solidified my passion for research and further strengthened my laboratory expertise, laying a solid foundation for my aspirations to contribute to impactful scientific work. This has led to the next step in my career doing a PhD titled “Evaluating Platelet Microparticles as Novel Regulators of Vascular Health.” I hope this project will uncover new insights into platelet biology and enable me to make meaningful contributions to science and human health.

Receiving the Institute of Biomedical Science President’s Prize was the cherry on top of an incredible academic progression. I am immensely proud of what I have accomplished and despite being far from my family, who supported me from a distance. Their absence made the challenges harder, but it also made me stronger and motivated me to double my efforts.

Throughout it all, I was never alone. I was supported by lecturers, mentors, and friends who believed in me. The PhD will bring new goals, new challenges, and, hopefully, many more publications.

My ambition has no limits, and this is only the beginning.

Sadie Webb

University of Lincoln

Commenting on the prize, Sadie said:

The depth of knowledge gained through my Biomedical Science course was exactly what I was after. Understanding the mechanisms behind pathology and the ways we, as scientists, can unpick these for diagnostic purposes was enlightening and the honour of being able to use this knowledge to improve a patient’s health is really the cherry on top!

The placement year I undertook in multidisciplinary Blood Sciences cemented my love of practical work, leading me to undertake a laboratory project in my Third Year, where I quantified titres of antibody to Epstein-Barr Virus in ~120 student volunteers, correlating these with markers of health and wellbeing.

Having completed my IBMS Registration Portfolio, I am looking forward to registering with the HCPC and beginning my career as a Biomedical Scientist. I took a deep interest in Immunology on my course, and I hope to follow this into the labs where I can direct my passion towards helping those who need it most.

I am incredibly grateful to receive this award, and I offer my most heartfelt thanks to my lecturers, tutors, friends, family and colleagues for their unwavering support throughout

Chibuzor Excellent Nwadi

London Metropolitan University

Chibuzro, commenting on the prize said:

I thoroughly enjoyed studying Biomedical Sciences at London Metropolitan University, particularly the balance of theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory experience. 

Winning the IBMS President’s Prize was a truly meaningful recognition of the hard work and dedication I invested in my Biomedical Sciences degree at London Metropolitan University. The programme’s strong balance of scientific theory and hands-on laboratory training equipped me with essential analytical and practical skills, motivating me to continue striving for excellence as I progress in my biomedical science journey

Stefano Luigi Scorza

Manchester Metropolitan University

Stefano commenting what the winning the prize means to him:

I am deeply honoured to receive the IBMS President’s Prize as recognition of my academic achievement and hard work throughout my time at the Manchester Metropolitan University. My time on this programme has been thoroughly enjoyable as I have been able to discover my place in the scientific community and grow both as an individual and a professional.

Every aspect of my time at university helped to shape me into the person I am now, all culminating in my undergraduate project on promonocytic leukaemia therapy that has really sparked an in-depth interest in scientific innovation, research and development.

I want to use this platform to specially thank my family, friends, supervisor and all lecturers in the Department of Life Science at the Manchester Metropolitan University. I am looking forward to continuing my professional development by applying to the Scientist Training Programme and making a positive impact on patient care through scientific innovation.

Kathryn Burdon

University of Plymouth

Kathryn on being awarded the prize:

I feel immensely proud to have received the IBMS President's Prize. As a first-generation student who was undiagnosed neurodivergent for the majority of my degree, I faced additional challenges. I couldn't have done it without the support from my friends, partner and lecturers. 

During my degree I undertook an academic research placement, presented at an international conference and was interviewed by the Microbiology Society. I am now pursuing a PhD at the University of Southampton, researching accessory genomes and evolutionary strategies of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli strains. 

I'm excited for this next chapter, and I hope to pursue a long, impactful career in the microbiology field."

Leanne Vega

University of Portsmouth

Commenting on her experience Leanna said:

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time studying Biomedical Sciences at the University of Portsmouth. The course has allowed me to gain an understanding of the different disciplines surrounding this field.

One aspect of the course I particularly enjoyed was my placement year in the Biochemistry department. I was able to further develop my lab skills and also complete my final year project. This involved a verification study to evaluate a new Roche folate assay. 

I am grateful for all of these opportunities and I look forward to starting my career as a Biomedical Scientist. 

Rachel Millington

Robert Gordon University

Rachel has provided the following comments:

I am honoured to have been awarded the IBMS President’s Prize as it is a testament to my hard work and dedication throughout my degree. During my time at RGU, I have had endless opportunities to develop my understanding through theoretical and practical means.

I undertook two clinical placements, one in Medical Microbiology at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and the second in Haematology at Raigmore Hospital, from which I gained invaluable knowledge and skills in both manual and automated laboratory settings.

I feel a particular sense of achievement over my honours project, which was an investigation of the inhibitory effects of general laboratory detergents on the Bradford Assay. I thoroughly enjoyed planning and running my own investigations, and felt a deep sense of pride while presenting my findings.

At present it is unclear where my career path may lead, as I decide whether to pursue further education or take my first steps into the laboratory workplace, but what I do know for certain is that I have every member of academic, technical and support staff involved in my journey to thank.”

Heba Toumeh

University of Salford

Commenting on her experience, Heba said: 

Studying Biomedical Science at the University of Salford has been a truly transformative experience, both academically and personally. The programme offered a rich combination of theory and hands-on practice, with each year deepening my understanding and passion for the fi eld.

From the supportive academic environment to the exposure to real-world laboratory practices, every part of the journey contributed to shaping me into the scientist I aspired to become.

One of the highlights of my degree was the opportunity to undertake a placement in the Biochemistry Department at Wythenshawe Hospital after my second year. This placement played a pivotal role in my development, and I am especially grateful to Tahmina Hussain, who introduced and led the IBMS Portfolio Club at our university. Through her guidance, we were able to clearly understand the IBMS registration portfolio process, explore the various career paths available, and prepare for placement interviews with greater confi dence. Her support helped us grow both professionally and personally, and signifi cantly enhanced our readiness for the workplace.

In my final year, I had the opportunity to work with Dr.Jeremy Allen on a research project titled:
“Optimising additive solutions to improve red blood cell and platelet viability during cold storage for transfusion applications.”

This project allowed me to explore the translational aspect of biomedical research and its impact on improving patient outcomes — an area I hope to continue contributing to in my career.

I’m excited to now begin the next chapter of my journey as I’ve recently secured a Band 5/6 Biomedical Scientist role in the Biochemistry Department at Wythenshawe Hospital. I look forward to applying all I’ve learned, continuing my professional development, and contributing to healthcare through science.

Anna Lucy Geere

Sheffield Hallam University: Anna Lucy Geere

Commenting on the prize, Anna said:

I’m incredibly grateful and honoured to have been awarded the IBMS President's Prize for 2025. I feel like this reward recognises my hard work and determination throughout the past four years of completing my degree and placement year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the IBMS, the staff at Sheffield Hallam, and my friends and family for their support.

Barbaby Brock

University of Strathclyde

To me, receiving the Prize was an immense honour and an impactful way to finish what had been three years of hard work and rigorous learning. I am proud to have been recognised by the Institute and am grateful to all my lecturers and professors who made my graduation and the achievement of this award possible.

Beatrice Chukwufunaya Nwabuokei

University of Surrey

Nawal Miraj

Teesside University

Nawal commenting on being awarded the prize:

First of all, I am deeply honoured to receive the IBMS President’s Award. As an international student, navigating a new healthcare and academic system has been both challenging and enriching. My journey has been shaped by a strong commitment to making a meaningful impact within the healthcare sector, which I’ve pursued through academic research and hands-on experience in the UK.

Moreover, working as a care assistant gave me firsthand insight into healthcare, including the problems patients face and the value of timely and accurate diagnosis. At the same time, my role as a science teaching assistant allowed me to support and inspire students in their scientific learning, reinforcing my belief in the power of education to drive change.

During my Biomedical Science degree at Teesside University, I developed a strong interest in diagnostic innovation, particularly through my research on gold nanoparticle-based colorimetric biosensors for cancer biomarker (GSH) detection. My goal is to help bridge the gap between research and clinical application by developing more accessible and rapid diagnostic tools that improve early detection and outcomes for patients.

I aspire to work as a specialist biomedical scientist and eventually contribute to translational research that directly supports patient care. I am also passionate about advocating for diversity and inclusion within the profession and encouraging students from all backgrounds, especially international and underrepresented groups, to consider careers in biomedical science

Sara Hughes

Ulster University

Sara commenting on the President's Prize:

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ulster University studying biomedical science. I found the modules interesting and engaging, my favourite being final year clinical and molecular genetics, in which I had the opportunity to try bioinformatics. This practical learning gave me a deeper appreciation and understanding of the human genome and transcriptome.

My final year project was a mixture of bioinformatics and ‘wet’ lab work. My project was entitled ‘A study of the phosphorylation and SUMOylation of retinoid x receptor alpha in BRAF-mutant melanoma cells’. This was essentially studying the effect of changes in post-translational modifications, which can occur because of BRAF driver mutations, on the function of retinoid x receptor.

In the project, I performed a site-directed mutagenesis experiment, successfully generating a mutant receptor which could not undergo phosphorylation/ SUMOylation. If we had more time, the aim would have been to study this receptor in melanoma/fibroblast cell lines to see whether it promotes tumour growth. I also had the opportunity to complete a year’s placement in the clinical biochemistry lab in Craigavon Area Hospital.

This gave me the opportunity to apply and develop my knowledge and skills, as well as complete my IBMS registration portfolio. During my placement, gained a deeper appreciation of how critical the biomedical scientist’s role is in the diagnosis of patients.

I am grateful for the experience and knowledge I gained in both university and placement and my current plan is to find a job in the field of biomedical sciences.

Joshua Andreas Rowe

University of Westminster

It has been a privilege (and a challenge!) to complete my BSc Applied Biomedical Science course as an apprenticeship alongside my laboratory support role at University Hospital Southampton. I am proud and grateful to be receiving the IBMS President's Prize because it represents my dedication to learning, as well as the support of the people around me.

For my project, I analysed blood glucose data from a laboratory analyser and a point-of-care device, in order to compare their performance and to evaluate the role of point-of-care testing in the care of diabetic inpatients. This assignment gave me the opportunity to take the scientific and statistical skills I gained from my course, and apply them to a real-world hospital setting.

Now that I am registered with the Health & Care Professions Council, I am excited to find work as a Biomedical Scientist so that I can pursue my passion and serve my community.