Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do

My day to day work is after death care of the deceased; booking in patients from the wards and community settings, and assisting Pathologists at post mortem by evisceration of patients and preparing the organ blocks for examination, as well as preparation of samples for histological, microbiological and toxicological examination before reconstruction of patients to a high standard.

 What inspired you to start volunteering?

Once I attained by RSciTech award, I was asked to volunteer to present at the Science Council’s Celebration of Science in November 2024. Whilst public speaking is not my most comfortable environment, I was happy to share my story of how I’d gone from being an archaeology graduate, to working in corporate NHS roles, to retraining as a scientist in my thirties. On the back of this, I now assess RSciTech shortened application routes as part of my work with my professional body on a voluntary basis. I hope that by sharing my journey with others and by being able to use my knowledge of the application process by assessing others, that my peers can successfully attain their accreditation and further develop their roles and careers.

 Can you describe a memorable experience or highlight from your time volunteering?

In May I was asked to volunteer as part of a panelist discussion as part of the summer activities organised by the Science Council. This took place over Microsoft Teams and was a 2-hour session; I was one of two panelists who had obtained their professional registration although via different routes and from different professions. This panel participation was a particular highlight due to being able to impart my knowledge not only from an applicant’s point of view, but from an assessor’s perspective. I found the panel style particularly effective and learned a lot from my fellow panelists.

 Has volunteering influenced your career or studies in any way? Or helped you develop any skills or knowledge?

Volunteering has strengthened my skills around public speaking and participation in events; neither of which come to me naturally as I am rather shy. However, I recognise the need to participating in activities which don’t come to me as naturally as others, in order to become more well rounded personally and professionally.

 What does volunteering mean to you personally?

Personally, I love giving something back and volunteering is a great opportunity to help others through a process I have already lived and breathed. The sort of knowledge I’m able to impart is something I’d have been grateful for before starting my application.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering?

I would advise anyone thinking about volunteering to go ahead and get involved; you never know what tidbit of your knowledge and experience will do to enable others to succeed.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do

I was recently appointed as the Technician Strategic Lead at the University of Cambridge, where I work to enhance the visibility, development, and impact of the technical community. My role involves collaborating with stakeholders to shape strategy, deliver professional development, and ensure technicians are recognised as essential contributors to research, teaching, and innovation. I also volunteer as Vice Chair of the Science Council’s Registration Routes Committee (RRC) and serve as a Registration Champion, advocating for professional recognition across the sector.

 What inspired you to start volunteering?

I’ve always believed in the power of community and collective progress. Early in my career, I benefited from mentors and networks that helped me grow professionally and personally. Volunteering felt like a natural way to give back—supporting others in their journey and helping to strengthen the technical profession through recognition, standards, and shared best practice. It’s also broadened my perspective beyond my own institution, deepening my understanding of the UK technical landscape and helping me develop leadership, governance, and advocacy skills that directly inform my strategic role today.

Can you describe a memorable experience or highlight from your time volunteering?

A real highlight has been working with colleagues from across different institutions to shape the future of professional registration through the RRC. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a group that not only upholds rigorous standards but also actively looks for ways to make registration more accessible and inclusive. Seeing someone you’ve supported achieve Chartered status or begin to mentor others themselves—that’s what makes it worthwhile.

 Has volunteering influenced your career or studies in any way? Or helped you develop any skills or knowledge?

Absolutely. Volunteering has given me insight into the wider technical landscape across the UK and strengthened my leadership, governance, and communication skills. It’s deepened my understanding of policy and professional frameworks, which helped prepare me for my strategic role at Cambridge and continue to shape how I advocate for technician development at a senior level.

 What does volunteering mean to you personally?

To me, volunteering is about purpose and connection. It’s a way to use your voice and experience to help shape something bigger than yourself. It brings personal fulfilment, a sense of community, and the opportunity to challenge yourself in new and meaningful ways.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering?

Go for it—you’ll get out far more than you put in. Start small if you’re unsure, but don’t underestimate the value of your experience and perspective. Volunteering is not just about giving your time; it’s about shaping the future of your profession, growing your confidence, and connecting with like-minded people who are equally passionate about making a difference.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do

Hello, I’m Jas, and I have been a volunteer with the Science Council for approximately six months. With 20 years of experience in internal audit and risk management, I bring my expertise to the Science Council as an independent member of the Finance, Audit & Risk (FAR) committee. The FAR committee is a crucial component of the Science Council’s governance structure, ensuring the Board fulfils its responsibilities regarding financial systems, controls, regulatory compliance, and risk management.

My role involves ensuring that the board and organisation are accountable in nearly every area, from audit to financial and risk management. It is a diverse role that requires committee members to engage with a wide range of topics, all aimed at supporting the overall good governance of the Science Council.

What inspired you to start volunteering?

I have dedicated the majority of my career to working full-time within the STEM sector, specifically in technology. My passion for STEM has driven me to actively promote the sector, particularly by encouraging new generations of women and minority communities to enter the field. It is equally important to support the retention and advancement of those already in the industry.

When I discovered the volunteer opportunity at the Science Council, I recognised that I could contribute in a meaningful and positive way, leveraging both my existing skills and deep passion for the sector. This opportunity also enhances my professional development, as being a member of the Finance, Audit & Risk (FAR) committee provides me with valuable exposure, insights, and a greater understanding of the inner workings of a committee. This will undoubtedly support my career development in the future.

Can you describe a memorable experience or highlight from your time volunteering?

The most significant highlight by far was meeting my fellow committee members in person for the first time at our most recent meeting at the Science Council offices. As a people person, I find that interacting with others energises me.

 Has volunteering influenced your career or studies in any way? Or helped you develop any skills or knowledge?

Within approximately six months of volunteering with the Science Council, the scope of my experience has expanded well beyond my initial expectations. While I have an extensive background in managing risks and controls, the skills I have gained through volunteering have developed me in ways I had not anticipated.

I have contributed to shaping the Science Council's strategy, provided advice on internal methodologies and practices, reviewed externally facing documents, commented on audit reports, and offered insights into accounting practices and methodologies. This experience has broadened my knowledge and also developed new skills in unfamiliar areas, particularly SORP/FRS 102 accounting. The experience gained at the Science Council will undoubtedly enable me to apply these learnings and approaches to other areas in my professional career. For instance, helping to shape the Science Council's strategy will ensure I am better positioned to provide assurance over this area elsewhere in my career.

In addition to the technical skills acquired, I have further enhanced my soft skills by demonstrating curiosity and communicating effectively with board members/fellow committee members. I have expanded my professional network and work alongside some fantastic colleagues at all levels, including the Science Council CEO, all of whom are experts in their field. This has helped me deepen my understanding of the behind-the-scenes workings of a charity and audit committee, the STEM/Science sector, and how broader macro-economic factors can influence policy and impact the sector as a whole.

What does volunteering mean to you personally?

I am a purpose-driven individual with strong values. Volunteering provides me with the opportunity to think beyond myself and utilise my skills for the greater good. While we all lead unique lives, we share many common factors that enable us to build strong bonds and work towards a common purpose. As a community builder at heart, I take pleasure in being part of a dedicated cohort of individuals, all striving towards the same goal, which aligns with my personal values.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering?

Take the leap! There is nothing to lose, and the benefits you will gain, both personally and professionally, are substantial. You will have the opportunity to connect with numerous skilled professionals from a range of diverse disciplines, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. This experience will expand your professional network and provide the chance to develop long-lasting relationships that extend far beyond the time spent volunteering. Ultimately, you will have the opportunity to advance the profession/sector and make a meaningful difference, leaving a lasting impact for future generations.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do

I am a Clinical Scientist with more than 20 years of experience working across several complex healthcare organisations, both in the UK and abroad. I began my career in 2003, relocated to the UK in 2008, and obtained professional registration in 2012, along with Chartered Scientist status. I am a certified Medical Physics Expert and a Radioactive Waste Adviser.

In my role as a Clinical Scientist, I am responsible for supporting safe and effective delivery of nuclear medicine services across multiple healthcare sites. My work includes overseeing the use of ionising radiation in both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, and providing expert advice on radiation protection and radioactive waste management through developing and reviewing local procedures, conducting audits, and driving continuous improvement in clinical governance and safety.

I also play a key role in the training and competency assessment of healthcare professionals, promoting best practices across services and supporting professional development. In my advisory capacity, I collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams and senior management and engage in effective communication with patients and families in clinical services delivery, frequently in very sensitive and vulnerable period for individuals facing life changing illness.

Through this combination of clinical, advisory, and leadership responsibilities, I contribute to the delivery of safe, effective, and compliant nuclear medicine services.

What inspired you to start volunteering?

My motivation to start volunteering stems from a strong belief in the value of service, professional integrity, and contributing to the wider community beyond my formal role. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to benefit from the guidance, support, and knowledge shared by others, and I have always felt a responsibility to give back in return.

Volunteering allows me to support the development of others, influence positive change, and help uphold the standards that protect public trust in healthcare science. Whether through mentoring, participating in regulatory panels, or advising on training programmes, I see volunteering as an opportunity to use my experience to strengthen the profession, promote fairness and transparency, and contribute to improving patient care and safety. It also gives me a broader perspective and continued personal growth through collaboration with professionals across different disciplines and settings.

Can you describe a memorable experience or highlight from your time volunteering?

One of the most memorable experiences from my volunteering journey was my very first time serving on a professional committee. I remember feeling quite nervous—being surrounded by highly experienced individuals, I questioned whether my contributions would carry the same weight or value. It was a new environment, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.

However, what stood out to me was the incredible support and encouragement I received from the other committee members. They took the time to welcome me, listened to my views with genuine interest, and reassured me that my perspective mattered. That experience gave me the confidence to speak up, engage fully, and trust in the value of my own expertise.

It reminded me how important inclusive and supportive environments are—not just for effective decision-making, but for enabling people to grow and contribute meaningfully. That first committee meeting not only built my confidence but also deepened my commitment to volunteering and to helping create that same positive experience for others.

Has volunteering influenced your career or studies in any way? Or helped you develop any skills or knowledge?

Absolutely—volunteering has had a significant impact on both my professional development and broader perspective as a Clinical Scientist. Through volunteering, particularly in roles involving professional panels, training schemes, and regulatory processes, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of governance, accountability, and the broader frameworks that underpin safe and effective practice in healthcare.

It has also enhanced my confidence in navigating challenging discussions, improved my ability to communicate clearly and diplomatically, and strengthened my appreciation for diverse perspectives—skills that are directly transferable to my clinical and leadership roles. Through volunteering, I’ve developed a greater awareness of governance, equality, and fairness, which has informed how I approach my own work and how I support colleagues and trainees.

Volunteering has also complemented my academic and professional studies, especially in areas related to strategic leadership and health system improvement. It’s broadened my network, exposed me to different disciplines and viewpoints, and continually challenges me to stay current and reflective in my practice. In many ways, it has shaped me into a more forward-thinking professional.

 What does volunteering mean to you personally?

To me, volunteering is about giving back, creating impact beyond the boundaries of my formal role, and contributing to something greater than myself. It reflects a commitment to professional integrity, continuous learning, and supporting others in their development.

Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and connection—it allows me to play an active role in shaping the future of my profession, promoting high standards, and protecting public trust. Personally, it’s also deeply rewarding. It reminds me that small contributions—whether mentoring a trainee, reviewing an application, or participating in a panel—can make a meaningful difference to individuals and to the system as a whole.

It’s a space where I feel I can use my skills to influence positive change, and in return, I gain valuable insights, new perspectives, and a strong sense of professional fulfilment. Volunteering has become an integral part of who I am, both as a Clinical Scientist and as someone who values collaboration, fairness, and the growth of others.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering?

My advice would be: absolutely go for it. Volunteering is an incredibly rewarding experience that offers far more than you might expect. It’s a chance to contribute to positive change, and gain new perspectives that can enrich both your personal and professional life.

Don’t be put off by thinking you need to have all the answers from the start. Every volunteer brings something unique—your experience, insight, and values are valuable. It’s okay to feel unsure at first; many of us do. What matters is your willingness to get involved, learn, and contribute.

Also, don’t underestimate the professional development that comes with volunteering. You’ll strengthen skills in communication, leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration—all of which can benefit your main role or studies. Most importantly, you’ll connect with like-minded people who are supportive and passionate about making a difference.

Start small if you need to, ask questions, and be open to learning. You may be surprised at how fulfilling and impactful the experience can be.

From Nervous Assessor to Confident Mentor: My Personal Journey in Biomedical Science Volunteering

By Charlie Houston FIBMS CSci MSc

How stepping into the unknown world of assessment transformed not just my career, but who I am as a Biomedical Scientist

I still remember the flutter of anxiety in my stomach as I walked into my first assessment session as a newly appointed verifier with the Institute of Biomedical Science, even though I had shadowed another experienced mentor and assessor at a leading children’s hospital in Glasgow. My hands were slightly damp, my notes meticulously organized to mask my uncertainty, and I found myself questioning whether I truly belonged in this role. What if I missed something crucial? What if my feedback wasn't helpful? What if I inadvertently crushed someone's dreams?

That was 25 years ago. Today, as I reflect on my journey as an assessor and examiner with both the Science Council and the Institute of Biomedical Science, I realize that those early anxieties led me to one of the most personally transformative experiences of my professional life.

The Unexpected Mirror of Self-Discovery

What nobody tells you about becoming a volunteer assessor and examiner is that you're not just evaluating others—you're constantly confronting your own knowledge, biases, and communication style. In those early days, I would prepare for assessments with the intensity of someone cramming for their own exam. I needed to ensure I understood every nuance of the standards, every subtlety of the criteria, because I knew that someone's career trajectory hung in the balance of my evaluation.

This preparation became an unexpected gift. Each portfolio I reviewed, every practical examination I oversaw, forced me to revisit fundamental principles I thought I had mastered years ago. I found myself researching techniques I hadn't used since my own training, exploring methodologies that candidates brought from different laboratory disciplines, and constantly updating my understanding of evolving best practices in Biomedical science.

But the real revelation came when I realized how much my confidence had grown. The nervous assessor who once worried about his own credibility had evolved into someone who could engage in scientific discussions with candidates, challenge their thinking constructively, and provide guidance that genuinely helped them improve. My continuing professional development wasn't just happening through formal courses anymore—it was occurring organically through every assessment I conducted.

Learning the Language of Constructive Growth

The first time I had to tell a candidate that their work didn't quite meet the required standards, I felt genuinely sick to my stomach. Here was someone who had invested months, perhaps years, preparing for this moment, and I had to deliver disappointing news. I stumbled through the feedback, focusing too heavily on what was wrong rather than how they could improve.

That experience taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my volunteer journey: the difference between criticism and guidance lies not just in what you say, but in how you frame the entire conversation. I learned to begin these difficult discussions by acknowledging the candidate's evident dedication and highlighting areas where they had demonstrated competence. Only then would I address the areas needing development, always in the context of "how this will make you a stronger Biomedical Scientist" rather than "here’s what you got wrong."

This evolution in my communication style didn't happen overnight. I remember practicing feedback conversations during my journey to work , testing different ways to phrase constructive criticism that would motivate rather than discourage. I began to understand that my role wasn't just to measure competence—it was to nurture professional growth. This realization fundamentally changed how I approached not just assessments, but every professional interaction in my career.

I particularly remember one candidate who had clearly worked incredibly hard but had missed some crucial safety protocols in their protocol. Instead of simply pointing out the errors, I shared a story from my own early career when I had made a similar oversight and how that experience had taught me to develop better systematic approaches to laboratory safety. By connecting my own vulnerability to their learning moment, I watched their defensive posture melt into genuine curiosity about how to improve.

The Magic Moments That Make It All Worthwhile

There’s a specific moment I treasure from last year that perfectly captures why this volunteer work has become so central to my professional identity. I was being conducted on a lab tour by a candidate who had failed their first attempt six months earlier. When she walked into the room, I could see the mixture of determination and lingering doubt in her eyes—the same expression I probably wore during my own challenging moments in training.

As she guided me through the various lab areas, something great happened. I watched her confidence build with each correctly answered question, saw her problem-solving skills emerge when she encountered an unexpected result or a QC that was out , and observed the moment when she realized she truly understood the underlying theory behind what she was doing. Her enthusiasm became contagious, and I found myself genuinely excited about her performance.

When I was able to tell her she had passed, his reaction was so genuine and overwhelming that I had to blink back tears. But what moved me most wasn't just her relief and joy—it was the moment when she looked at me and said, "I can't wait to start mentoring and training students myself someday." In that instant, I realized I wasn't just witnessing her success; I was seeing the continuation of a cycle of mentorship and professional growth that would extend far beyond our interaction.

These moments of recognition happen regularly now, and each one reinforces why I volunteer my time for this work. Whether it’s seeing a nervous candidate transform into a confident professional during an assessment or recognizing that spark of scientific curiosity that signals someone will make exceptional contributions to our field, these human connections have become the most rewarding aspect of my career.

But perhaps the most emotionally powerful moments come when I'm able to tell a trainee they’ve successfully achieved their Certificate of Competence after I've verified their Registration Portfolio.

I remember one verification where the trainee was so overcome with joy that she couldn't speak for several seconds. When she finally found her voice, she told me that she had been working on her portfolio qualification while juggling single motherhood and part-time studies, often staying up late into the night to complete her portfolio entries after her children were asleep. The Certificate of Competence represented not just professional recognition, but validation that all those sacrifices and struggles had been worthwhile. Her gratitude was so genuine and heartfelt that I found myself getting emotional too, reminded once again of the profound impact these assessments have on real people's lives and dreams.

The Ripple Effects in My Daily Professional Life

What surprised me most about my volunteer work was how it began to influence every aspect of my professional interactions. The patience I developed in explaining complex concepts to candidates translated directly into more effective collaboration with colleagues. The skill I cultivated in providing constructive feedback without damaging confidence made me a better supervisor and mentor in my workplace. The confidence I gained from successfully guiding others through challenging professional milestones gave me the courage to take on leadership roles I might have previously avoided.

I found myself volunteering to mentor new Biomedical Scientists through the IBMS mentoring scheme, speaking up more confidently in scientific meetings, and approaching professional development conversations with a more nuanced understanding of how to motivate and guide others. The interpersonal skills I was developing through assessment work were making me not just a better Biomedical Scientist, but a better colleague and leader.

My family and friends began noticing changes too. My wife commented that I seemed more self-assured in social situations, more willing to engage in difficult conversations, and better at finding constructive ways to address conflicts. The communication skills I was honing through volunteer work were enriching my personal relationships as well as my professional ones.

Finding Purpose Through Service

Perhaps the most profound impact of my volunteer journey has been the sense of purpose it has given me. In my day-to-day laboratory work, it's easy to lose sight of the broader impact of what we do as Biomedical Scientists. The routine of daily procedures, the pressure of Turnaround Times, and the focus on individual tasks can sometimes obscure the larger mission of improving human health through scientific excellence.

But when I'm conducting assessments, that bigger picture becomes crystal clear. Every candidate I evaluate represents someone who will contribute to diagnostic accuracy, research innovation, or quality improvement in healthcare delivery. The standards I help maintain ensure that patients can trust laboratory results, that research findings are reliable, and that the next generation of scientific discoveries builds on a foundation of rigorous professional competence.

My work as a STEM ambassador has added to this meaningful dimension with a sense of purpose. I'll never forget a particular day at the Glasgow Science Centre whilst I was demonstrating chromatography techniques to families visiting the interactive exhibits. The activity involved separating different coloured dyes, and children were fascinated watching the colours slowly travel up the paper strips, creating beautiful patterns as they separated into their component parts.

One young boy, probably around eight years old, was absolutely captivated by the process. His mother stood nearby, watching him with a mixture of joy and amazement as he carefully observed each step of the demonstration. When I asked him if he could remember the name of what we were doing, he concentrated intensely for a moment, then proudly announced, "Chromatography!" His face lit up with such genuine excitement at mastering this complex word.

What happened next moved me to tears. His mother approached me with tears streaming down her face and quietly explained that her son had learning difficulties, and she had never imagined he would be able to pronounce, let alone understand, such a sophisticated scientific term. She told me that his teacher had been working with him on breaking down complex words, but this was the first time she had seen him tackle something this challenging with such confidence and enthusiasm.

In that moment, I realized that my volunteer work wasn't just about maintaining professional standards or advancing scientific careers—it was about opening doors to scientific wonder for everyone, regardless of their starting point or perceived limitations. That little boy's triumph reminded me that science belongs to all of us, and that sometimes the most profound impacts come from the simplest acts of sharing knowledge and enthusiasm.

This connection to our profession's ultimate purpose has reignited my passion for Biomedical science in ways I didn't expect. I find myself approaching my own work with renewed energy, knowing that the excellence I strive for in my daily practice models the same standards I expect from the candidates I assess, while also remembering that behind every technical procedure and rigorous standard lies the potential to inspire wonder and open new possibilities for others.

The Ongoing Journey of Growth

As I've taken on additional roles—serving as a trustee and council member with the Institute of Biomedical Science and expanding my work as a STEM ambassador and assessing CSci , RSci, RSciTech and helping with the apprenticeship standards with the Science Council—I've come to understand that volunteer service is not something you do in addition to your career, but something that becomes integral to who you are as a professional.

Each new responsibility brings fresh challenges and opportunities for growth. Working at the governance level has given me insights into how professional standards are developed and maintained, while my role as a STEM ambassador has connected me with inspiring young people who are just beginning to discover the excitement of scientific inquiry.

The nervous assessor who walked into that first evaluation session 25 years ago could never have imagined the confidence, skills, and sense of purpose that would emerge from saying yes to volunteer opportunities. What began to give back to the scientific community has become one of the most significant sources of professional and personal development in my career.

Every candidate I assess, every difficult conversation I navigate, and every moment of celebration I share with a newly qualified professional adds another layer to my understanding of what it means to be part of the scientific community. In helping others achieve their professional goals, I have discovered capabilities within myself that I never knew existed and found a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of scientific progress.

This journey has taught me that the most meaningful professional growth often comes not from what we achieve for ourselves, but from what we contribute to others success. In the end, my volunteer work hasn't just made me a better assessor—it has made me a better Biomedical Scientist, colleague, and human being.

The author continues to serve as a volunteer assessor and STEM ambassador with the Science Council and as an assessor, examiner, trustee, and council member with the Institute of Biomedical Science, finding new opportunities for growth and service with each passing year.