CSO WISE ones to watch - pt 3

We were proud to hear that six of our members have been chosen for the CSO WISE Healthcare Science Leadership Development Programme. We caught up with them to find out about their work, why they applied for the programme and what they hope to achieve. Here are the last two profiles of our CSO WISE ones to watch:

Laura Pitter

Background

My career in Healthcare Sciences began in 2004. After completing a BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences, I started work in the Histology department at Whiston Hospital, where I am still based today. My career has developed greatly over the years, the laboratory has seen many positive changes including a full modernisation programme as well as the introduction of many new systems to streamline processes and ensure we can maintain the highest standards in today’s busy and challenging operating environment. 

Most significantly, I have developed a passion for Immunohistochemistry and have led the service through successful UKAS assessments and developed a highly engaged team who constantly strive to deliver a shared purpose.

CSO WISE

I believe that leadership is a skill that can be nurtured, particularly for those who find it difficult to realise their own potential. The highly acclaimed CSO WISE HCS Leadership Development Programme opportunity has not only inspired me to develop these skills but also given me all the right tools to succeed.  It has been a fantastic platform from which to showcase the brilliant work of HCS and encourage others to pursue their own dreams, goals and achievements.

Going Forward

Patient safety is my priority but I am also driven by inclusion, staff engagement and education. The main aim of my project is to develop assays which focus on targeted therapies, bringing them in house to improve patient pathways, whilst developing the workforce to enhance their skill set. Collaboration with a variety of roles within the wider healthcare setting is an essential part of this project and one in which I hope will promote the role of HCS as an integral part of the workforce and encourage other HCS to strive for more.

Keeley Thwaites

Background

My interest in science was sparked by an enthusiastic secondary school science teacher who encouraged and supported my learning. Having gained three A levels in Science I studied Biochemistry at Queen Mary College, University of London, graduating in 2002. Undecided whether to pursue a career in research or a clinical setting, I commenced employment as a medical laboratory assistant in Histopathology. It was in this role that my interest in Histology was kindled - being fascinated by the complexity of tissue recognition and the scientific processes in place to conclude a diagnosis. I began my Biomedical Scientist training in 2004, working towards completion of the IBMS Certificate of Competence and a Post Graduate Certificate in Biomedical Science. In 2005 I joined the HCPC register. Keen to advance my Biomedical Scientist career and expand my Histopathology knowledge I embarked upon a MSc in Cellular Pathology in 2007 at the University of Westminster. In 2009 I took the Immunohistochemistry Lead position at Queen’s Hospital, BHRUT, where I have witnessed the increasing expansion of biomarker testing and the critical evolution of companion diagnostics. Leading a team of Biomedical Scientists, we have expanded and developed the department to incorporate a molecular diagnostic service as well as expanding the Immunohistochemistry repertoire to include a companion diagnostic service. We have developed extended roles for Biomedical Scientists interpreting test results, working with consultant Histopathologists to provide results to clinicians. I am driven by the acquisition of scientific knowledge and its application in the clinical setting to improve the care of our patients. Most recently I obtained Clinical Scientist equivalence to enable me to embark upon the HSST programme.

CSO WISE

It was a WISE woman that inspired my application; her enthusiasm, encouragement and support has been infectious, and I aspire to be the same. I hope that the knowledge I acquire and the networks I endeavour to form can impact on women that I teach, mentor and support. I hope to use this opportunity to help raise the profile of Healthcare Scientists within my own trust, the local community and beyond! Only four months into the programme and I have already met many inspirational Healthcare Scientists not only within my own trust but from all over the UK.

Going Forward

As part of the programme it is essential to complete a 12-month project, I have focused on forming a network within the Immunohistochemistry community.  I aim to provide an informal network whereby scientists will provide support, encouragement, motivation and empowerment to peers; ask questions of their colleagues and receive answers from experienced scientists. If any Immunohistochemists  would like to be involved and be apart of the network, then please get in touch! Keeley.insole@nhs.net