Healthcare Science Specialism: Histopathology.
What does your job involve?
In my role, I perform a wide range of routine histopathology tasks such as specimen receipt, assisting pathologists at dissection, embedding, microtomy, and staining of diagnostic tissue, specimen storage, and maintenance of equipment. I am also involved in reagent validation, quality control testing, and in training and supervising new members of staff.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Having a nurse as a mother, I obtained a chance to see how fulfilling a career can be in healthcare. She would teach me about anatomy and physiology and I remember being fascinated by how incredible the human body can be. Biomedical science gave me an opportunity to combine my passion for being involved in patient care and treatment as well as study, observe, and learn about the human body in great detail; which is the best part about my job.
Being in CUH, I have been so lucky to work with subject experts and have observed the analyses of rare disorders and diseases as well. As a trainee biomedical scientist, I have learnt several wonderful techniques such as paraffin embedding, microtomy, microscopy, and have had an opportunity to participate in diagnostic cytology processes. I learn something new about pathology every day in the laboratory, which is what makes me so happy to be doing what I do.
What qualifications led you to this role?
I have completed a BSc in Microbiology and Biochemistry at St. Xavier’s College, India, and have done an HCPC-accredited MSc in Biomedical Science at Kingston University, London. Currently, I am also doing an HCPC-accredited diploma in Biomedical Science at Anglia Ruskin University focused on Cellular Pathology, Haematology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Diagnostic Pathology.
Whilst I was doing my MSc degree, I undertook the role of a Biomedical Support Worker in CUH as a placement for my course. In two years, I received opportunities to progress to the role of a Senior Biomedical Support Worker and then to my current role as a Trainee Biomedical Scientist.
As a trainee biomedical scientist, I have learnt several wonderful techniques such as paraffin embedding, microtomy, microscopy, and have had an opportunity to participate in diagnostic cytology processes.
What career opportunities are available?
There are plenty of career opportunities in Histopathology. Having undertaken several roles in the past two years, I have seen that every role plays an important part towards patient care. Most students start as Biomedical Support Workers, Associate practitioners, and Trainee Biomedical Scientists, and it is a good chance to be involved in a team and in processes that have a direct impact on patient care. These jobs also instil a passion towards studying the amazing processes undertaken by the human body.
Other career possibilities are Specialist Biomedical Scientists, Clinical Scientists, Senior Biomedical Scientists, Advanced Practitioners, and Consultant Biomedical Scientists, which involve acquiring further knowledge and skills in Histopathology.
Do you have advice for someone interested in a career in healthcare science?
Being a biomedical scientist in Histopathology is a very fulfilling role. If you are interested in learning about the human body and want to contribute towards healthcare, this is the perfect role for you.
It is the perfect opportunity to utilise what is taught in university courses and apply it in a practical setting. In addition to this, it allows you to develop many skills such as manual dexterity, attention to detail, prioritisation, organisation, accuracy, teamwork, and leadership – skills that you can use for a lifetime!