IBMS Verifiers and Examiners: Umar Anjum

This year, we are celebrating the invaluable contributions of our verifiers and examiners by highlighting the essential work they do for the profession. These dedicated professionals play a crucial role in maintaining high standards, verifying the skills of the next generation of biomedical scientists, and ensuring the continuous improvement of our field. Through their tireless efforts, they uphold the integrity and excellence that define the IBMS and the biomedical science community.

This month, we spoke to Umar Anjum, Senior Biomedical Scientist (Training Lead) at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust (Microbiology Department – Wexham Park Hospital):

•  Why did you get involved in completing IBMS verifications and examinations in the first instance?

I conduct verifications of Registration Training Portfolios (all departments/multidisciplinary) and examinations of Specialist Diploma in Microbiology to contribute towards the development of the profession and the registration of our Biomedical Scientists. The thorough and extensive collaborative learning, broader interaction, and the sharing of good practices helps services to collectively improve patient outcomes. As a part of my own professional development and my commitment towards CPD, I wanted to participate in the networking and learn from others. I am now able to contribute towards the learning and development projects within the Trust by using the extensive experience I have gained as a IBMS Verifier and Examiner.

• Would you say your practice or your workplace has benefited from your involvement in verifications and examinations? 

Yes. I strongly believe drawing from the excellent and mixed skilled talent out there in different regions is very useful to adapt good lab practice and learning ideas. Whether these are comparing procedures and practices or reflection on current strategies related to management and health and safety.

Since receiving Chartered Scientist registration from IBMS/Science Council in 2023, I have taken on more responsibility towards the development of others through learning and mentoring. I think my understanding of verifications and examinations enables me to motivate trainees and encourage them to progress.

• What's your favourite thing about being an IBMS verifier or examiner?

I enjoy interactive discussion with trainers and trainees and I am always excited to see good quality evidence and the way the brilliant candidates present their extensive hard work as evidence. 

• Would you recommend becoming an IBMS verifier or examiner to others?

Yes, I would certainly recommend other professionals to become an IBMS verifier or examiner. It enables extensive shared learning and reduces the waiting time for newly qualified Biomedical Scientists to join the profession as registered HCPC professionals. It helps the profession improve staff retention, reducing staff shortages, while increasing mixed skilled team members. This is a huge benefit.

 

If you want to find out more about the eligibility criteria and download the application form to become an IBMS Verifier or Examiner click here>>>

Please also feel free to watch these refresher training resources we have provided for our existing verifiers and examiners:

IBMS Training for Trainers - Verifiers : Part 1

IBMS Training for Trainers - Verifiers : Part 2

IBMS Training for Trainers - Specialist Portfolio Assessors