President’s Prize winners 2024

Last updated: 13th January 2025
President’s Prize winners 2024

Here are the 2024 award winners of the IBMS President’s Prize

Each year the Institute of Biomedical Science gives a prize of £100 to one graduate on each IBMS Accredited BSc (Hons) degree programme for achieving the highest academic distinction in their year group.

The President’s Prize recipients for 2024 are:
  • Abertay University: Aleksandra Necel
  • Anglia Ruskin University: Megan Lee
  • Aston University: Natalie Fuller
  • University of Bradford: Sayed Qasim Ali Kazmi
  • University of Brighton: Maria Camacho Millan
  • Cardiff University: Emily France
  • University of Central Lancashire: Ivy Lo
  • Coventry University: Taha Bilal
  • De Montfort University: Om Ashwin
  • University of East London: Hanya Elsayed Ragab Elsayed Ibrahim Eid
  • University of Essex: Taqwa Khamis Mansoor Khamis Al Dughaishi
  • Glasgow Caledonian University: Bronwyn Doherty
  • Gulf Medical University: Serene Regi John
  • University of Hertfordshire: Rebecca Jane Morris
  • University of Huddersfield: Abigail Leia Smith
  • University of Hull: Alfie Foster
  • IMU University: Yong Qiao Ru
  • Kingston University: Rukaiya Azad
  • Lancaster University: Amy Barnes
  • Leeds Beckett University: Briony Holt
  • University of Lincoln: Anneliese Furlong-Muir
  • Liverpool John Moores University: Matthew Hurst
  • London Metropolitan University: Susana Sofia Carrajana Martins
  • Manchester Metropolitan University: Neda Shahedy
  • Northumbria University: Lauren Charlton
  • Nottingham Trent University: Ethan Iles
  • Oxford Brookes University: Lauren Ritson
  • University of Plymouth: Ellie Jones
  • University of Portsmouth: Samuel Eaton
  • Queen’s University Belfast: Haris Hussain Qurashi
  • Robert Gordon University: Isabella Mezzani
  • University of Roehampton: Yasamin Mehrasa
  • Sheffield Hallam University: Divyani Mistry
  • Staffordshire University: Jae Ababio
  • University of Strathclyde: Aimee Sinclair
  • University of Sunderland: Noor-E-Huddah Malik
  • University of Surrey: Chloe Moss
  • Ulster University: Stephanie Forsythe
  • University of the West of Scotland: Annie Harper
  • University of Westminster: Santhushi Kumari Tennekoon
  • University of Wolverhampton: Jodie Black
  • University of Worcester: Rebecca Ham

Maria Camacho Millan - University of Brighton, pictured in headline image with Dr Louise MacKenzie, Course Leader – Biomedical Science, said: 

"I can confidently say that my entire experience in the programme was profoundly enriching. Blood Science and Cellular Pathology particularly stood out to me, deepening my appreciation for the human body's intricate systems. Yet, the true highlight of my academic journey was my research project on the application of biomaterials in wound healing.

This project allowed me to explore a captivating area with significant real-world implications.
What made the project especially rewarding was the opportunity for independent research. As I look ahead, I am excited about furthering my research and contributing to advancements that could make a meaningful impact in the field."

sayed ali

Sayed Qasim Ali - University of Bradford, said:

"First and foremost, receiving this award from the IBMS is an absolute honour. This achievement was made possible not just through my own hard work and dedication but also through the invaluable reminders from those around me to remain patient during times of struggle, enabling my progress and success.

The four-week lab session during my dissertation was an immensely enjoyable and enlightening experience, as I had the opportunity to work with blood samples. It solidified my aspiration to pursue a career within a laboratory setting.

I currently work as a medical laboratory assistant at the BRI Blood Science Laboratory, and this recognition from the IBMS will significantly enhance my prospects of securing a trainee position."

emily france

Emily France - Cardiff University said: 

"I really enjoyed the variety of modules that my degree covered. I believe that the modules allowed me to gain a good grasp and insight into a wide range of topics within biomedical science, and I thoroughly enjoyed our contemporary topics module. 

Throughout my degree, we had regular practical sessions in the laboratories. These taught us invaluable skills utilised by biomedical scientists regularly within their course of work. These were also paramount in preparing me for my third-year research project which was focused on novel halogen-based antimicrobials to treat and manage established chronic wound biofilms. I spent 12 weeks in the laboratory testing an antimicrobial that had been developed in association with the University of Washington.  

The project has helped me figure out what I would like to do next. I am taking a year off, and I plan to travel to Australia, New Zealand, and Iceland before deciding on my next career choice."

taha bilal

Taha Bilal - Coventry University, pictured with Dr Rebecca Butler, Academic Dean and Head of College, College of Engineering, Environment and Science at Coventry University, said: 

"I was studying medicine in Pakistan, but then COVID-19 happened, and it allowed me to re-evaluate my choices. I took a chance and switched to Biomedical Science at Coventry University despite resistance from my family. Moving to a new country, coupled with the chaos from COVID-19 and the transition to online learning, further exacerbated my worries about whether I risked too much.  However, despite everything, my punt paid off in the most spectacular way possible as I secured an industrial placement, a first-class degree, and the IBMS President's Prize.  

My future plans include publishing a paper about the effect of therapeutically induced senescence on NK Cell function in multiple myeloma and to work on areas related to ageing as it is seldom thought of even as a problem despite being the most prevalent disease worldwide."

Hanya Elsayed Ragab Elsayed Ibrahim Eid

Hanya Elsayed Ragab Elsayed Ibrahim Eid - University of East London, pictured with – Dr Claudio Scotti, Principal Lecturer, Prof. Sally Cutler and Prabha Parthasarathy, Deputy Programme Leader, said:

"I am honoured to be awarded the IBMS President’s Prize and to be recognised for my dedication and effort during my Biomedical Sciences’ degree. This prize reflects not only my achievement but also the unwavering support and constant motivation that my family, my lecturers at the University of East London, and my mentors and the dedicated staff of the Great Ormond Street Hospital have provided me. 

The university has equipped me with more than enough knowledge and practical skills that made me ready for a sandwich placement year at the Enzymes’ Laboratory in Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Coupled with my experience in mentoring throughout my degree and laboratory projects at both GOSH and UEL, the three prizes I have won have provided me with further motivation to continue my master’s journey in Cancer, Molecular Pathology, and Genomics’ research at Bart’s Cancer Institute and to continue afterwards in academia to pass knowledge onto future scientists."

Taqwa Al Dughaishi

Taqwa Al Dughaishi (centre) - University of Essex, pictured with Professor Selwa Alsam, Biomedical Science Course Director, University of Essex and Bob Keeble FIBMS Honorary Senior Lecturer, said:

"I am deeply honoured and grateful to be awarded the IBMS President’s Prize. This recognition means so much to me and has strengthened my sense of belonging in the biomedical science community. Although studying overseas was challenging at times, achieving this prize has made it all worthwhile.

My time at the University of Essex was a period of personal and academic growth, and I owe a lot to my family, friends, and lecturers for their support throughout. Now, I am excited to pursue a career in research, where I hope to make meaningful contributions to advancing health outcomes."

Bronwyn Doherty

Bronwyn Doherty - Glasgow Caledonian University, pictured with Dr Linda Walsh IBMS Council member for Scotland, said: 

"I am so honoured to receive the IBMS President’s Prize. Coming back to education after 10 years and starting a new career path was incredibly daunting and there were a few times where I didn’t think I was cut out for this degree and that I wouldn’t make it. I always made sure to at least try my best and managed to stick it out.

I never thought I’d receive the prize so it was a huge surprise, but I am so proud of myself and the example I can set for my son and showing him that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. I look forward to my future as a biomedical scientist and whatever comes next in this journey!"

Serene Regi John

Serene Regi John - Gulf Medical University said:

"I am deeply honoured and incredibly happy to be the first-ever recipient of the IBMS President’s Prize at Gulf Medical University. This recognition is a significant milestone in my academic journey, and I am humbled to have set this precedent for future students.

Currently, I am pursuing Master of Biomedical Science at the University of Melbourne, working on my master’s research project in mitochondrial biology. I am eager to continue my academic journey, with aspirations to pursue a Ph.D. and make a significant contribution to the field of Biomedical Science."

Abigail Smith

Abigail Smith - University of Huddersfield said: 

"Receiving the IBMS President’s Prize 2024 has been a massive achievement, and I am incredibly thankful. I had a great time doing my degree at the University of Huddersfield with amazing support from the lecturers and I made great friends from my course. I thoroughly enjoyed my work placement at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which gave me relevant knowledge and experience in the pathology departments.

My final year project looked at 'Are Human Blood-Borne Virus Genes Optimised for Expression in Humans?' and my supervisor, Martin Carr, and the University gave great support during the project, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Further from my degree, I have started working as a biomedical scientist in Haematology and Transfusion at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board."

alfie foster

Alfie Foster - University of Hull pictured.

Qiao Ru copy

Qiao Ru Yong - IMU University, pictured with Dr Anil Philip Kunnath, said:

"During my time at IMU I particularly enjoyed the hands-on experience in the laboratory, using scientific research instruments and analysing experimental data. For my final year project, I worked on a study titled "Melatonin regulates pyroptosis in HepG2 cells by targeting the caspase-1/caspase-4/caspase-5/HMGB1/GSDMD pathway." Thanks to the positive results, my supervisor, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soi Moi Chye recommended that I represent IMU University at the 14th Malaysian Symposium of Biomedical Science. I was proud to win first place in the poster presentation in the Non-Communicable Diseases category. 

After completing my degree, I joined DKSH Malaysia as a management trainee in the Technology Unit, focusing on Life Sciences instruments. Although my current role is in a different industry, I plan to pursue further studies with the ultimate goal of becoming a researcher and lecturer. I aspire to use my knowledge to educate future generations and improve the healthcare system in Malaysia and globally."

Briony Holt - Leeds Beckett University said:

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Leeds Beckett University studying Biomedical Science. The content was varied and interesting with several modules having a strong practical focus. My project focussed on circular RNAs in breast cancer and measuring their ability as prognostic biomarkers. This was a major highlight of the course for me, especially with the freedom in the laboratory to repeat investigations and learn practical skills alongside theory taught in lectures.

I didn’t do a placement year as I knew I didn’t want to go into biomedical science as a profession and wanted to stay in academia rather than NHS and practical work. Future plans-wise, I’m hoping to study a PhD next year in oncology after going travelling later this year."

Anneliese Furlong-Muir - University of Lincoln said:

"Before university, I worked as an Apprentice Healthcare Scientist in Blood Transfusion at the William Harvey Hospital in Kent, where the team there showed me how important biomedical science was in the day-to-day care of patients. This experience, with the incredible people who give 110% every day, made me want to go to university to study on an IBMS-Accredited course.

 I'm studying and researching for my Masters in Biomedical Science, where I’ll be in a research group focusing on myeloproliferative neoplasms and myelofibrosis. I’m looking forward to working in a research laboratory setting for the first time and the exciting challenges that lie ahead."

Matthew hurst

Matthew Hurst - Liverpool John Moores University, pictured with Dr. Emmanuel Babafemi FIBMS.

Susana Sofia Carrajana Martins - London Metropolitan University said:

"I am deeply honoured to receive the IBMS President's Prize for 2024. This recognition is a gratifying acknowledgement of the dedication and effort I have invested in completing my degree. The journey was not without its challenges, but with the unwavering support of my family, friends, lecturers, and colleagues at the University of Oxford, I was able to achieve first-class honours. 

Alongside my studies, the experience of working in histopathology research within the Oncology Department at the University of Oxford has been invaluable, further fuelling my passion for the field. After navigating the demands of my studies, I am now eagerly looking forward to pursuing a future in Biomedical Sciences, particularly as I embark on my portfolio training to become a registered biomedical scientist."

Neda Shahedy

Neda Shahedy - Manchester Metropolitan University said: 

"I feel very grateful to have received the IBMS President’s Prize, and it was rewarding to see the results of my hard work when I received my qualification degree and the recognition gained. Thank you for presenting me with this award, and for all the opportunities I have had so far whilst at Manchester Metropolitan University. 

I am working full-time as a Senior Clinical Research Practitioner. So far, I have delivered studies and clinical trials looking into possible advancements in treatment. I have also been involved in the setup of studies, working on costing tools, and writing ethics applications. I am also an NHS Careers Ambassador, where I promote research and opportunities to various groups including students across different years."

lauren charlton

Lauren Charlton - Northumbria University said: 

"I am extremely grateful to have received the IBMS President's Prize 2024, it is a true reflection of the hard-work and dedication I have displayed throughout my time at Northumbria University.

During my time at Northumbria, I was lucky enough to secure a placement year in the Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics department within NHSBT, where I continued to work in my final year and have since obtained a Band 5 job. I would like to thank those at Northumbria and H&I for their support over the past years as I would not be where I am today without them."

Ethan Iles

Ethan Iles - Nottingham Trent University, pictured with IBMS President Joanna Andrew, said:

"Following on from my undergraduate degree in microbiology and a master's degree in research, I applied myself to further learning in the apprenticeship to develop my skills. I achieved a first-class degree, the IBMS President's Prize, and have managed to secure a place as a BMS in the Barnsley Hospital Microbiology Department.

My aim for the future is to learn and develop at Barnsley with the goal of completing my specialist portfolio. Further down the line, I would love to do a higher specialist diploma, continuing my development and learning throughout my career."

Ellie Jones

Ellie Jones - University of Plymouth, pictured with Andrew Usher IBMS Council Member for the South West, said:

"I am so grateful to have received the IBMS President's Prize for The University of Plymouth and have thoroughly enjoyed my time studying Biomedical Science. I discovered my passion for Microbiology during my degree and completed my IBMS Registration Portfolio in the Royal Devon University Healthcare Microbiology department. Following this, I undertook my final year research project in multi-drug resistant bacteria and antimicrobial research.

I am keen to progress my career by undertaking an MSc in Microbiology and Infection at the University of Birmingham; this will allow me to consolidate the knowledge I have gained and pursue my interest in antimicrobial resistance. With the long-term aim of becoming a Clinical Scientist, I will then be applying to the Scientist Training Programme in Microbiology. This award is the result of the hard work I have put into my degree and the incredible support from my friends, family, and lecturers throughout my time at university."

Samuel Eaton - University of Portsmouth, said:

"I’ve really enjoyed studying biomedical sciences over the last four years; particularly enjoyable to me was learning to interpret blood films in haematology and spot malignancies and haemoglobinopathies, and identify malarial species or stages of maturation. I’ve also enjoyed being taught by experts in their respective fields and learning about the new techniques we’re now using to treat diseases. 

My goals for the next year are to publish my project thesis (of course, with some extra guidance from my supervisor) and gain some work experience in a research laboratory. After that, I’d love to design my own study for an MRes degree and potentially go on to work in academia."

Haris Hussain Qurashi

Haris Hussain Qurashi - Queens University Belfast.

Isabella Mezzani

Isabella Mezzani - Robert Gordon University, pictured with Rebecca Wright, Lecturer in the School of Pharmacy and Life Science at Robert Gordon University, said:

"I was honoured to receive the IBMS President’s Prize as it represents the dedication and effort I invested in my degree. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at university, particularly the two clinical placements in the laboratories of immunology and biochemistry of NHS Grampian and NHS Highland, as well as the honours project in the research laboratories of RGU. 

My studies sparked a deep interest in immunology and cancer research, and I will apply the skills and knowledge gained during my degree to pursue an MSc by Research in Medical Sciences at the University of Aberdeen, where I will be investigating macrophage infiltration in breast cancer.

I would like to thank my lecturers and supervisors for their support, as well as my family and friends for always being by my side and cheering me on. I am excited to be a part of the biomedical science community and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead."

Yasamin Mehrasa

Yasamin Mehrasa (centre) - University of Roehampton, pictured with Dr Laurent Lacroix (neuroscientist and senior lecturer in biomedical science), Dr Robert Busch senior lecturer in biomedical science, Dr Peter Wright senior lecturer in biomedical science, and Dean of Life and Health Sciences Dr Sally Akehurst,  said:

"I enjoyed every minute of studying Biomedical Science. The highlight for me would definitely be the last year when we had achieved the appropriate level of proficiency and competency to work independently in the laboratory, plan, organise, and run our own final year projects.

My project was on “the effect of Lipopolysaccharide activation of Microglia cells on the glioblastoma cell fate”. This not only broadened my understanding on one aspect of neuroscience but also ascertained me about my passion and enthusiasm to learn more and more about neuroscience.

Currently, I am working towards HCPC registration. I am also considering doing master’s degree in neurosciences and potentially extend my research and knowledge to a PhD level."

Divyani Mistry

Divyani Mistry - Sheffield Hallam University, said:

"I am deeply honoured to receive the IBMS President’s Prize, an achievement that would not have been possible without the unwavering support of God and my Guru, my family, friends, and lecturers. During my time at Sheffield Hallam University, I found great fulfilment in exploring subjects such as human physiology, the impact of disease, blood disorders, and pharmacology. 

This experience has not only solidified my passion for biomedical science but also inspired me to advance my studies through an MSc in Physician Associate Studies, where I am eager to continue my pursuit of knowledge in the field of healthcare."

Aimee sinclair

Aimee Sinclair - pictured with Dr Linda Walsh IBMS Council member for Scotland, University of Strathclyde, said

"I am extremely grateful to have been awarded the IBMS Presidents Prize. This award reflects the hard work and dedication I have invested over the last 4 years. I have thoroughly enjoyed studying Biomedical Science, it has been both challenging and rewarding, and it has offered countless opportunities to develop my skills and confidence. This award has inspired me to continue pushing myself and I hope to use my knowledge to contribute to healthcare as a Biomedical Scientist. I would like to thank both the IBMS and the University of Strathclyde for this opportunity."

Noor-E-Huddah Malik,

Noor-E-Huddah Malik - University of Sunderland, pictured with Nicola Norman Pathology Education Training Manager at Northumbria NHS Trust, said: 

"I am deeply honoured and immensely grateful to receive the IBMS President's Prize. This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work I have invested in my studies over the last three years.

Although it wasn't easy completing a placement alongside my studies, I can proudly say that the hard work has paid off. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family, lecturers and peers who have provided unwavering support and guidance throughout my journey. Their encouragement and belief in my potential have been invaluable and this award is as much theirs as it is mine.

Receiving the IBMS President's Prize not only acknowledges my achievements but also motivates me to contribute even more to the scientific community. I look forward to practising as a biomedical scientist and am committed to contributing to the biomedical science field."

Chloe Moss

Chloe Moss (centre) - University of Surrey, pictured with Dr Alison Cottell Programme Lead for Biomedical Science and Professor Roberto La Ragione Head of the School of Biosciences at the University of Surrey, said :

"I was incredibly honoured to have received the IBMS President’s Prize, which recognises the hard work and dedication that I put into my studies. My degree was by no means easy but it has been such a rewarding four years, especially after graduating with a First Class Honours. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my degree as it gave me the opportunity to delve into a variety of scientific disciplines, whereby I was able to understand human biology at many different levels. I cannot thank my lecturers enough for their engaging teaching and support. Also, I could not have achieved this without the unwavering support of my family and friends. 

Receiving this prize has given me more confidence in my skills and knowledge going forward in my job search."

annie harper

Annie Harper - University of the West of Scotland, pictured with Dr Fiona Menzies, FIBMS Programme Leader Biomedical Science Programme at the University of West Scotland, said:

"During my time in the Applied Biomedical Science program at the University of the West of Scotland, I loved the aspect of integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. The laboratory sessions were one of my favourite parts of my degree, allowing me to perform hands-on complex experiments and develop techniques such as PCR, electrophoresis, and microscopy, which I found particularly enriching.  

During my placement, the true highlight of my degree, I witnessed how our university learning is applied in real-life healthcare situations. Discovering the profound impact and responsibility that biomedical scientists have in laboratory medicine and diagnosis, particularly the critical role Haematology and Transfusion science play in patient care, solidified my passion for the subject. 

Looking ahead, I am excited to embark on my next journey as a Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Haematology and Blood Transfusion within the NHS using the knowledge and skills I have acquired during my degree."

Santhushi Kumari Tennekoon 2

Santhushi Kumari Tennekoon (centre) - University of Westminster, pictured with Dr Nicholas Baidoo, Lecturer in Life Sciences and  Dr. Ian Locke,  Assistant Head of School, School of Life Sciences, said: 

"Completing my Biomedical Science degree has been a rewarding experience. I appreciated the diverse range of modules offered. These modules broadened my knowledge and helped me discover my passion for specific areas within the field, such as haematology. One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the opportunity to apply my knowledge through hands-on laboratory work during my coursework and dissertation project.

The placement year was another highlight; spending a year as a trainee biomedical scientist in a laboratory setting gave me invaluable exposure to the real-world application of diagnostic testing and the critical role biomedical scientists play in modern healthcare. Moving forward, I plan to pursue a career as a biomedical scientist, with a particular focus on the field of haematology, while also remaining open to exploring other opportunities that align with my skills and interests, such as biomedical research or even branching into veterinary science."

Rebecca Ham

Rebecca Ham - University of Worcester, pictured with Daniel Kearns IBMS Council Member for the West Midlands, said:

"I thoroughly enjoyed studying biomedical science at Worcester as it was a very well-rounded course and had a bit of everything. Over the 3 years, without placement, my favourite modules included Chemistry, Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroendocrinology and Infection science and Antimicrobial resistance. I liked biomedical science as it had practical elements to it alongside theory which allowed me to develop my lab skills and ultimately led to my third-year research project. My research project was microbiology based, I was able put together both my theoretical and practical skills such as PCR, qPCR and DNA extraction to put together my dissertation and present this as a poster. 

Having graduated from University with a First, I have just begun my career as a trainee Biomedical scientist in an NHS biochemistry lab. I am working on my registration portfolio to become fully qualified and from here I hope to go on to further develop my skills within the lab and improve my understanding of the tests we offer in biochemistry to complete my specialist portfolio and much more!" 

Congratulations to all the IBMS President's Prize recipients. We wish all the awardees continued success as they embark on their careers, contribute to advancements in the field, and make a lasting impact on the lives of patients and the scientific community.

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