Professional courses

Dr Geoff Poole

Professional Doctorate Pathway

Biomedical Science (DBMS)

Place of Employment and Job Title

Director, Welsh Blood Service, Llantrisant, South Wales

What made you decide to come to the University of Portsmouth to study the Professional Doctorate?

Some years ago I had begun a PhD degree, but at that time there were too many conflicting demands with my role as Senior Scientist in an NHS reference laboratory, and I reluctantly discontinued my studies. Then I became aware of the Professional Doctorate in Biomedical Science course at Portsmouth. I realised that the two-part design of the course was much more likely to be compatible with my job, even given the additional management responsibilities that I had acquired. Furthermore, I felt that the professional element in both parts of the course would be of immediate interest and of practical value in the long term.

How did you find the course?

I enjoyed the course from the very first day of my Part 1 studies. With my scientist background, I found some of the reflective work hard going, but ultimately rewarding and useful. The coursework on qualitative and quantitative research was particularly valuable, and I learned a great deal about research methodology. I was able to miss out on the publication and dissemination module through the APEL scheme, as I already had sufficient publications that I could use to gain the necessary credits.

I undertook my Part 2 research in the research laboratories in the National Blood Service building in Bristol, where I was based. I was very fortunate in having a superb supervisor at my workplace, and I also received excellent advice from Portsmouth University staff too. With their guidance and encouragement, I was able to complete my studies, and submit my thesis, within the time-frame that I had set myself at the outset.

What was your project title?

‘The production of soluble proteins having blood group activity, and their use in quantifying red cell antibodies in pregnant women’.

How do you think this course has helped you to develop your career in your profession?

I was appointed to my current post as Director of the Welsh Blood Service during the final stages of my thesis write-up. I think that the appointing panel were looking for an expert in the field of blood transfusion, and that my professional achievements would have been significant factors for them in their choice. In this new post, I feel equally confident in discussions with consultant haematologists, senior scientists and senior managers; hopefully, I have earned their respect.