Biomedical Science Alums

Dr Amarit Gill

MREs Graduate 2019-20

Dr Amarit Gill (MREs Graduate 2019-20)

The MRes in Applied Biomedical Sciences was a great opportunity to develop academic skills part-time, alongside training as an Academic Foundation Doctor. The course is delivered through Wrexham University in partnership with the North Wales Clinical Research Centre at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. It is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science. As a result of this unique partnership, course delivery benefits from both research and clinical perspectives. Not only are the newly built laboratory facilities excellent; so is the quality of lab-based, practical teaching during the Analytical and Molecular Techniques module.

Further taught modules in Clinical Pathology and Research Methods were engaging, informative and provided learning content relevant to the Research Dissertation. There is scope to tailor a project which captures your research interests and improves career prospects. There are a wealth of resources available, easily accessible through the university library and online learning platform. Teaching about applying for research grants and ethics approval was a highlight of the programme, with useful tips and examples provided by experienced researchers. Academic staff and supervisors throughout the course were accessible, responsive, and supportive of student needs.

Completing this course alongside working full-time has been challenging at times, however achievable and rewarding. My research dissertation investigated the role of routine haematological and biochemical blood tests in predicting post-operative complications following trans-urethral resection of the bladder tumour. Overall, I have strengthened my academic skills and portfolio, gaining research experience, great research connections and publications along the way. Currently, I am working as a Clinical Radiology Trainee in Sheffield and look forward to further academic pursuits.

Jakub Matusiak

MSc Biomedical Science Graduate & Winner of the Helen Hughes Memorial Prize 2020-21

After completing a BSc Microbiology degree at the University of Liverpool, I applied to do the MSc Biomedical Science programme at Wrexham University. I chose this option for the fact that the programme is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), which is something that health science employers look at as an essential aspect of the programme, alongside working experience.

Additionally, students enrolled on this programme have the opportunity to study and spend time at the state-of-the-art BCUHB Maelor Academic Unit of Medical & Surgical Sciences (MAUMSS), where they receive hands-on experience using the latest clinical and research laboratory techniques. Students enrolled on this programme are also able to undertake their laboratory-based research projects at the MAUMSS.

Furthermore, it is important to mention that a substantial number of lectures are delivered by NHS professionals (such as surgeons and pathology managers) where they discuss real-life case studies as part of their teaching. The programme is comprehensive and deals with a wide range of subjects, from research methods to haematology and microbiology. Essentially, there is something for everyone interested in the fields of biomedical science and medicine.  

The Wrexham University MSc Biomedical programme is a great choice for anyone wanting to learn about medical laboratory sciences, clinical diagnostics and research. It is a well-structured programme, organised and led by friendly, helpful and experienced academic and healthcare professionals who use their expertise to educate and provide an excellent learning experience for the students.

Another strong feature of this programme is the excellent support provided by staff to help and advise students with their career pathway options. For anyone interested in Biomedical Sciences, medicine or clinical research, I highly recommend the MSc Biomedical Science programme at Wrexham University.

Lydia Nightingale-Williams

MSc Biomedical Science, Wrexham University 2023-24

Following the completion of a BSc (Hons) degree in Forensic Science at Wrexham University (WU), I decided to apply for the IBMS-accredited MSc Biomedical Science course at WU. My reason for choosing this programme was because I have an interest in Biomedical Science and the course covers a wide range of modules including analytical and molecular techniques, blood sciences, immunology and microbiology, pathology of disease, research methods and professional practice. The programme also provides students with the opportunity to spend time undertaking their research projects at the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) – Maelor Academic Unit of Medical & Surgical Sciences (MAUMSS), which is a state-of-the-art research facility. During this time, students can work with healthcare professionals such as research scientists, doctors, nurses and other allied health professionals, which no doubt enhances the learning experience.

With respect to my own research dissertation, I undertook a study, entitled “An evaluation of the role of various biochemical parameters and tumour markers in patients diagnosed with Bladder Cancer and Prostate Cancer: ‘A comparative study’”. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and I am hopeful that we can get this work published in a relevant peer-reviewed journal.

I also found the lectures delivered by WU academic staff to be extremely useful and informative, including the lectures delivered by NHS professionals.

The staff and tutors are amazing and so supportive, as a mature student with a young family it could be challenging to manage the work, however, the staff and tutors made this achievable for me. The use of online meetings and lectures was extremely helpful and the reassurance that I could contact staff anytime I needed was useful. Wrexham University has an excellent student support team who are always at hand to assist with any issues from IT support to finance advice. Support is also offered in exploring and finding the right career opportunities for students which is very helpful.

To anyone considering Wrexham University for undertaking their postgraduate degree, I would highly recommend studying at this university, especially in a STEM subject such as Biomedical Science.

I will graduate this academic year 2023-24 for my postgraduate degree.