Science

Futuristic digital background. Abstract connections technology and digital network.istock-1366720907

Here to help: developing your career

Dan Nimmo, IBMS Head of Communications, highlights the robust array of networking opportunities the IBMS offers members that are designed to foster career growth and professional development.

Remember and celebrate

We hear from a special event the IBMS held at the Imperial War Museum on 6 June.

best group photo with placard(s) - haematology-team

Trending: Biomedical Science Day

We look back at this year’s Biomedical Science Day – the largest annual celebration of biomedical scientists and laboratory staff in the UK.

scientist sitting on books - CREDIT - istock-1441414703

Advanced practice: facilitators and barriers

Aimee Pinnington, Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Keele University, with an update on her research into education, training and development pathways.

blood test finger - CREDIT - iStock-1060112832

Robust verification

Dan Kelly, POCT Hub Lead at Spire Healthcare, looks at POCT verification processes, from equipment checks to reviewing decision levels and confirmatory testing in hub laboratories.

Clinical Chemistry

melanoma cell - CREDIT - science-photolibrary-f0403499

Phenotypic plasticity in melanoma: the impact on management strategies

Dr Ghada Elayat looks at the role of epithelial–mesenchymal transition in cancer and the implications for melanoma development.

Histopathology

The big question: Are we entering a new era in which mRNA vaccines are the future?

In May, AstraZeneca began the worldwide withdrawal of its COVID-19 vaccine, due to a “surplus of updated vaccines” that target new variants. Then in June, Moderna announced positive late-stage trial results for its single COVID/flu combination vaccine, mRNA-1083. On the back of this, we look at the future impact of mRNA vaccines.

Molecular Pathology & Genomics

Leaving the laboratory

Amiee Allen looks at navigating continuing professional development in non-conventional healthcare scientist roles.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever

Dr Arantza Portillo discusses the changing epidemiology of this tick-borne viral disease in Spain and looks at the future situation for the UK.

Microbiology & Virology

The great big biomedical science quiz of the year (scroll to the bottom for the answers)

To round off the year, our final cover feature for 2023 is a biomedical science quiz. Following are 10 rounds of questions set by the IBMS Specialist Advisory Panels, which are comprised of experts in their specialist areas who advise the IBMS on science and policy.

Supporting POCT in virtual wards

Ian Smith, Head of Laboratory and Clinical Trials at Veritie Group, looks at point-of-care testing and virtual wards in Oxfordshire.