Farhaan
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
From Cheshire to China, a degree qualification in BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science has taken University of Bradford alumni Farhaan around the world, in a fast-paced career that is showing no signs of slowing down.
This is Farhaan's story...
Becoming a microbiologist
"I was tempted to work in the NHS after university, but at the time, you could only get an entry-level role in the NHS if you were a qualified biomedical scientist. If you’d done a placement year or portfolio during your degree (both of which were available at Bradford), you would’ve ticked those boxes, but I didn’t go for this option. However, I would definitely advise new students to opt for the placement year to get a footing in the industry."
Getting into the industry
"Instead, I secured a job at Arla Foods as a microbiologist. It was long hours, often working 12-hour shifts, but it was a great route into industry and got me the lab experience I was looking for. My job was to analyse dairy products to assess the different levels of bacteria, protein, fat, calories etc in them, to determine what went on the labels that you see on shelves in supermarkets.
"Before milk was packaged into bottles, or custard or crème fraiche into containers, I had to make sure it hit certain standards for the different retailers they went to."
I enjoyed making an impact on patient lives, and the fast-paced nature of the job.
Working for the NHS
"My lab experience at Arla got me noticed for a role at an NHS blood and transport centre, where I became responsible for sorting patient blood donations, analysing them on machines, carrying out blood grouping and typing, along with hospital liaison and stock control."
Exploring pharmaceuticals
"I relocated to Cheshire to work for a pharmaceutical manufacturer, in a microbiologist role that was similar to Arla, but I was exposed to a lot more. There were stringent methods involved when testing tablets and inhalers."
Challenging the norm
"From there, I moved into fast-moving consumer goods, taking on a research and development role for new products. For example, I worked on different formulations of the popular E45 cream, Dettol brands, testing different thicknesses and scents. I also got to ensure brands like Dettol could truly verify their ‘Kills 99% of germs’ claim with my microbiology skills. There was a lot of troubleshooting and problem-solving in that role, using all the microbiology knowledge I’d learnt at university and in my previous jobs."
I then took on an improvement specialist role within manufacturing, helping to create diagnostic kits for cancer patients. My job was to challenge the norm and establish new ways of doing things.
Travelling the world
"I get to travel the world with my work and manage a small team of people. The company is growing significantly and is soon expanding into the US.
"It’s a unique role, looking at clinical trials for clients like drug manufacturers and biotech companies. For example, someone who’s developed a new vaccine would come to us to say they need research to back up what they claim to do. We then design a clinical trial, recruit participants, and carry out the trial.
"My job is to work alongside in-house medical teams and clinical staff to advise from a quality point of view, making sure we meet all regulations, protect patient safety and care, and uphold data integrity etc.
"We specialise in medical diseases like dementia, OCD, and schizophrenia. At the moment, we’re doing a lot of work testing magic mushrooms as a treatment for certain conditions, given the recent calls to legalise it."
The degree was varied and opened up opportunities wherever you wanted to go.
Well prepared
“The Biomedical Science degree opens up many opportunities.
"The final year research project helps you discover what you really like, and that tends to influence your decision to go into further study or into industry.
"I’ve had exposure nationally and internationally within companies I’ve worked for, and accumulated some incredible experience with household names. None of which would be possible without my degree from Bradford."
Interested in a career in Biomedical Science?
Find out more about our course, entry requirements, and how to apply.