24 hours in the life of a UK NHS Biomedical Scientist
In this guest editorial, Aida Noor discusses her everyday life in the lab, balancing clinical NHS work with her role as a thought leader and content creator in the healthcare space
22 Oct 2024
Aida Noor, Founder & CEO, Biomedical Science and Beyond
In this guest editorial, submitted as part of the #CLINCIAL24 conversation, Aida Noor shares her insights and experiences as a visionary Biomedical Scientist. She discusses her role in clinical laboratory science and the impact of her work on healthcare education and career development.
About my job as a Biomedical Scientist
I am currently self-employed, working across the NHS and private sector while leading Biomedical Science and Beyond, a platform focused on career guidance, thought leadership, and advancing healthcare education.
As a Biomedical Scientist, I specialize in infectious sciences and microbiology and have hands-on experience in both NHS and private diagnostic laboratories. In addition to my clinical work, I serve as the Founder & CEO of Biomedical Science and Beyond, where my mission is to extend the reach of biomedical science beyond the lab. Through this platform, I create engaging content that makes healthcare, education, and career development accessible to a wider audience.
My content explores the intersections of science, technology, and the future of work, with the aim of empowering the next generation of scientists. Whether through blogs, videos, or podcasts, my goal is to provide actionable insights and transformational advice that inspire personal and professional growth.
A typical day for me as a Biomedical Scientist
A typical day involves balancing my responsibilities as a Biomedical Scientist with my role as a content creator and thought leader. While working in the lab, I focus on performing diagnostic tests, analyzing patient samples, and collaborating with healthcare teams to ensure high-quality outcomes. My passion for education and innovation drives my work beyond the lab as well.
At Biomedical Science and Beyond, I create educational content aimed at empowering both students and professionals, guiding them through the evolving landscape of healthcare, careers, and education. Whether developing resources on career transitions, interviewing thought leaders in biomedical science, or offering career advice through webinars and workshops, I strive to make complex topics accessible and engaging.
Biggest challenges as a Biomedical Scientist
While working in the lab, Noor focuses on performing diagnostic tests, analyzing patient samples
Balancing the demands of both clinical work and content creation is a rewarding yet challenging experience. In the lab, constraints such as limited resources and evolving protocols require adaptability and quick thinking. On the content creation side, my challenge is staying ahead of emerging trends in healthcare and education, ensuring that my platform reflects the latest advancements while remaining relevant and informative.
A broader challenge is ensuring that the content I create is not only scientifically accurate but also forward-thinking, preparing individuals for the future of healthcare and education. Continuous learning is a core principle I live by, and I encourage others to embrace lifelong learning as they navigate their professional journeys.
How technology supports my work as a Biomedical Scientist
Technology plays a critical role in addressing the challenges faced in clinical laboratories. Automation has drastically improved efficiency, reducing human error and allowing for faster turnaround times in diagnostics. Tools like Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) streamline data management, ensuring accuracy and traceability. These advancements free up time for clinical staff to focus on more complex analytical tasks and enhance overall patient care.
Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into lab processes will revolutionize how we conduct diagnostics, making healthcare more personalized and efficient. As a content creator, I also leverage digital platforms and communication tools to reach a global audience, sharing these technological advancements with the next generation of healthcare professionals.
My vision beyond biomedical science
While my foundation is in biomedical science, my vision extends beyond the lab. Through Biomedical Science and Beyond, I create content that addresses not only the technical aspects of science but also the future of education, careers, and work. I am deeply invested in the transformational power of learning — whether that is helping aspiring scientists navigate their career paths or exploring how technology and innovation are reshaping the healthcare landscape.
My aim is to inspire professionals to adopt a holistic approach to their growth, encouraging them to embrace continuous learning and leverage their strengths and passions to create fulfilling careers. I believe that storytelling, digital platforms, and thought leadership are essential tools for making biomedical science accessible and engaging, ultimately preparing the workforce for the future.