Keeley Thwaites

"I am a leader at work, I lead a team of Biomedical Scientist and Scientific assistance on a daily basis. I have a keen interest in training and believe that empowering and training the workforce really is an investment for the future. I aim to be a good role model for my peers, children and the workforce of the future."

"I am Healthcare Scientists specialising in Immunohistochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics in a clinical laboratory. I have a dual role as both Biomedical and Clinical Scientists. I enjoy this double aspect of my job because it allows me to perform the scientific tests and apply them clinically. My main role is to identify mutations in solid tumours and inform clinicians, who can then appropriately treat our patients. I work with scientists, pathologists, oncologists and clerical staff on a daily basis. "

"My interest in science was sparked by an enthusiastic secondary school science teacher who encouraged and supported my learning. Having gained three A levels in Science I studied Biochemistry at Queen Mary College, University of London, graduating in 2002. Undecided whether to pursue a career in research or a clinical setting, I commenced employment as a medical laboratory assistant in Histopathology. It was in this role that my interest in Histology was kindled being fascinated by the complexity of tissue recognition and the scientific processes in place to conclude a diagnosis. I began my Biomedical Scientist training in 2004, working towards completion of the IBMS Certificate of Competence and a Post Graduate Certificate in Biomedical Science. In 2005 I joined the HCPC register. Keen to advance my Biomedical Scientist career and expand my Histopathology knowledge I embarked upon a MSc in Cellular Pathology in 2007 at the University of Westminster. In 2009 I took the Immunohistochemistry Lead position at Queen’s Hospital, BHRUH NHS trust, where I have witnessed the increasing expansion of biomarker testing and the critical evolution of companion diagnostics. Most recently I obtained Clinical Scientist equivalence to enable me to embark upon the HSST programme."

"I have two small children, one at school and the other at pre-school. I try to spend as much time with them as I can, learning, having fun and relaxing. I also enjoy exercise, I attend Bounce classes for a cardio work out and hot yoga to help both with physical strength and mental wellbeing. "

"I start my working day at 8am, after dropping my children at their pre-school clubs. I check my email for external tests requests as the laboratory processes test requests from other hospitals. I then unload slides from the Immunohistochemistry platforms which were loaded the previous evening. Every morning when the rest of the team arrive I lead a huddle at which we discuss the workload on that day, any meetings that need to be attended and raise any issues arising. I spend the rest of the day carrying out and reporting molecular diagnostic reports to inform clinicians of possible therapy options for our patients. I quality control all of the work that flows through the laboratory, priories urgent request and liaise with the Pathologists. I am continually looking at ways of improving our service, faster turn around times and expanding the test repertoire to ultimately benefit our patients. I am always learning and often present to my peers at lunch time or hold journal clubs. I am an active member of the IBMS London Region Cellular Pathology Discussion Group Committee and once a month travel to London after work to attend meetings promoting education and learning for other Biomedical Scientists. "

"A levels Chemistry, Biology and Physics, BSc Biochemistry, PgCert Biomedical Science, MSc Cellular Pathology, IBMS Certificate of competence, AHCS Clinical Scientist Equivalence, HSST Trainee Consultant Clinical Scientist. "