Biomedical science at LSBU recognised in prestigious industry awards
London South Bank University (LSBU) has been nominated in two major categories at the most prestigious accolades for the biomedical science profession.
The University has been shortlisted in the Higher Education and Partnership Working categories at the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) 2026 awards, which recognise the IBMS members that are shaping the future of the biomedical science profession.
At the heart of the Higher Education category nomination is the LSBU extracurricular IBMS Club — a 10‑week programme designed to support undergraduate biomedical science students to build employability, confidence and professional readiness. Open to all students, the club supports both those preparing for a placement year and those who are not undertaking a placement, ensuring everyone can develop essential skills and professional awareness.
The club is led by LSBU academics alongside students returning from placement, who share first‑hand experience and practical insight with their peers. Employers also contribute by presenting real‑world case scenarios, helping students better understand professional practice and providing guidance on routes to HCPC registration after graduation, supporting progression into the biomedical science workforce within the NHS and beyond.
Creating strong route into biomedical science careers
The Partnership Working nomination recognises the strong and impactful collaboration between the University’s Biomedical Science programme and North West London Pathology (NWLP), award‑winning NHS pathology network, delivering over 65 million tests.
Built on a shared goal of supporting students to move confidently from academic study into clinical practice, the partnership provides high‑quality, structured placements aligned with IBMS and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) requirements. This ensures the LSBU curriculum remains current, relevant and closely matched to workforce needs.
Over the past three years, the partnership has developed into a highly collaborative model. NWLP staff contribute to teaching, assessments and curriculum development, while LSBU provides thorough preparation and ongoing academic support throughout placements. Together, both organisations have created a sustainable placement pathway and a strong route into biomedical science careers.
The impact is clear: a 100% placement completion rate, with 84% of students having completed or nearing completion of their IBMS registration portfolio, and all students progressing into relevant professional roles or pathways. Many graduates secure roles within NWLP, demonstrating the trust and confidence placed in LSBU students.
Angela Jean‑Francois, Managing Director of North West London Pathology, highlighted workforce development as a key priority within NWLP’s five‑year strategy. She emphasised the organisation’s commitment to investing in both existing staff and future talent, noting that its award‑winning Training Academy and well‑established student placement programme play a crucial role in supporting the education and development of future biomedical scientists.
“Our close collaboration with LSBU has been instrumental in helping students bridge the gap between academic learning and real‑world laboratory practice."
She said: “Our close collaboration with LSBU has been instrumental in helping students bridge the gap between academic learning and real‑world laboratory practice. It is incredibly rewarding to see students grow in confidence and capability while working in fast‑paced NHS diagnostic environments. This partnership not only supports career opportunities for our students and a strong pipeline of skilled professionals for our services but also contributes to the future strength and sustainability of the profession as a whole.”
Shpresa Haliti, course leader for Biomedical Science, added: “These nominations reflect the collective commitment of our staff, students and partners to delivering education that is truly connected to professional practice. We are incredibly proud to see our work recognised by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and to showcase how LSBU is preparing confident, capable graduates who are ready to make a real impact in the biomedical science workforce.”