What I do

I work in a pathology laboratory. I work on the diagnostic testing of blood tests, surgery and swabs that are taken in the hospital. We receive all the samples, and my job is to book them in. I do a lot of transporting samples to different labs – making sure the nurses have filled in the information correctly, and that samples have been taken properly. I then assist the Biomedical Scientists with the diagnostic testing. It’s a really varied job and I absolutely love it.

Test tubes containing liquids and a timer

Hear more about Georgia's role by watching the video below...

How I became a technician

I did a range of roles before I started working here. I studied the sciences and maths for GCSE and at A-level I took sociology, dance and English literature. After that I tried different sectors, including policing and working in customer service and business admin.

I then decided to do a Forensics degree and fell in love with Biological Science – and now I’m here!

I am now studying an applied science laboratory technician NVQ with Spire, which is a two-year apprenticeship. From where I started a year ago to where I am now is such a massive difference thanks to this apprenticeship.

A typical day in my
working life

Because I work in private healthcare, I have to do lots of business admin, so I do this in the morning.

I then check the samples to make sure we’ve got the right ones for the tests requested. Sometimes I centrifuge samples, which is when we spin them and separate them into the different blood products for testing. I also help with quality control. I also make sure samples booked in after 2pm are appropriately stored.

I’ll make an effort to process most of the bookings, so that our Biomedical Scientist working the evening shift isn’t overwhelmed.

I did a lot of U-turns early on but trust the process; find your passion and find the next right thing.

As well as theoretical knowledge, the apprenticeship has given me a lot of practical skills.

What I love most about my job

I love that it’s a very busy working environment. The workload keeps you on your toes and the things you’re working on really make a difference to people’s lives.

A little more about
my everyday role

The best bits about working in a team

Most people here are Biomedical Scientists, so the breadth of knowledge is incredible. With their experience there is no problem we can’t solve. We help each other and the better we work as a team, the better we are for our patients. I am learning so much from my colleagues.

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

When I started, I was a Medical Laboratory Assistant, but I’ve recently been promoted to Deputy Administration Lead. I also can’t wait to finish my apprenticeship as that will be another step forward for me.

The next steps in my career journey

I would like to do a degree in Biomedical Science and specialise as a Histology Biomedical Scientist. I am also thinking about studying Forensic Anthropology in the future and seeing if I can tailor my career to working in a forensic field or a medical context.

Find out more about this role

Discover what qualifications you’ll need, how much you can earn, and what the next steps are.

Nine apprentices sitting on sofas socialising

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