No limits for Abi at Blackpool after becoming biomedical scientist

Congratulations to Abi Murray, who has not only become Blackpool Teaching Hospital's first biomedical science apprentice to graduate, but has also secured a role as a biomedical scientist in haematology and blood transfusion.

Abi, 29, joined the Trust three years ago as a medical laboratory assistant at the start of the Covid pandemic. Working at such an intense and uncertain time led her to move into a role as an associate practitioner in virology and soon the opportunity to train as a graduate came up.

Abi already has a degree in human biosciences, but now she also has a fully accredited BSc in biomedical science. The course combines an accredited degree with an Institute of Biomedical Science registration portfolio of evidence, giving Abi Practitioner of Biomedical Science status and eligibility to join the Health and Care Professions Council ,and enable her to work in the NHS as a biomedical scientist.

While studying for her degree, Abi has also had to juggle intensive study with being a mother to two children, now aged 13 and six. She explained: "It was hard to prioritise everything and I really had to focus and concentrate.

"I also had to apply and interview for the biomedical scientist post here, but luckily I was successful. I've also been really well supported and encouraged by my managers and colleagues throughout pathology, but especially in virology. I really feel that there are no limits to my development here."