Sarah Maxfield talks about working in Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics

What does your job involve?

I am the Laboratory Manager, Training Manager and a Consultant Clinical Scientist in H&I at Cambridge University Hospitals NHSFT. I am also the Training and Accreditation Lead for Life Science in the East of England. My H&I job involves selecting HLA compatible donors and providing immunological risk advice for solid organ and stem cell transplantation. I also support staff on various Scientist Training Programmes and ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the laboratory with the support of my fantastic team.

What’s the best thing about your job?

I get to be involved in helping patients receive transplants which can significantly improve their quality of life and often save lives. I also get to support trainee Scientists in developing their careers and becoming the qualified and innovative future NHS workforce. Beyond our department I work with healthcare staff across various specialties as part of a multi-disciplinary team to provide the best possible patient care.

What qualifications led you to this role?

I have a BSc in Human Physiology, the British Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (BSHI) Diploma, an MSc in Medical Immunology, and the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) Part I and II. I also completed the Mary Seacole Program.

What career opportunities are available?

Within H&I you can start from a Medical Laboratory Assistant and progress all the way to Consultant Clinical Scientist along various different career pathways depending on your entry qualifications and past experience.

Do you have advice for someone interested in a career in healthcare science?

Reach out to National School of Healthcare Science Training Leads in to get information on the roles available, entry qualifications, and career progression. There are roles available to suit all skills and interests and we’d love to help you find yours.