One of our newest employees, Ali, is put to the test with VH Bio’s staff Q&A! Learn about his role, background and hobbies in this exclusive interview:
What is your name & job title?
Mohammad Ali Rafique, but call me Ali; easier all round! I’ve just started here at VH Bio as a Transplant Technical Sales Specialist.
Describe what your job entails:
Liaising with NHS laboratories and our other customers to discuss the introduction of new technology or to provide support for existing methods.
What is your career and/or educational background?
I graduated in 2007 with a degree in Biomedical Science. I’ve worked within transplantation in NHS and NHSBT labs since 2009 during which time I completed state registration as both a Biomedical Scientist and a Clinical Scientist. I have a proven record of service development and improvement, with a strong belief that we need the appropriate tools to help deliver the best outcome for the patient; we can’t solve the problems of tomorrow using yesterday’s technology.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
My love for board games started in Bristol but has grown exponentially since moving to Oxford. There’s something about sitting down with friends, enjoying some snacks, light chat, whilst also doing your best to crush them (unless you’re supposed to be working with them in which case scratch that last part!). I also enjoy surfing/kayaking and aim to get to Cornwall/Devon/South Wales a few times a year to get out in our (admittedly) cold water!
What is your favourite animal?
I like animals and, at one point, they outnumbered humans in our house 3 – 1. Moving away from pets, there is something really mesmerising about Red Pandas, don’t you think?
What was the worst job you’ve ever had?
I’ve had a broad range of experience, including hospital kitchens, retail, and even working in a food science laboratory. The dullest job I’ve ever had was weekends in a GAME concession within Debenhams during my uni years, saved only by the lovely people I worked with.
Describe your perfect weekend.
Heading to London to watch some theatre; I’ve seen Les Mis many times and watching Hamilton is next on my list!
What is your favourite film?
You can’t beat Russell Crowe in Gladiator. Amazing film.
How did you entertain yourself during lockdown?
Trying new recipes, baking, and board games with friends over Zoom/WhatsApp (actually much easier than it sounds); but more recently dealing with our newborn boy!
If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pizza. It came to a head when I realised I’d had it four times in one week!
If you were stuck on an island what three things would you bring?
Bear Grylls for the company, Steve Backshall for the heavy lifting, and Ray Mears as backup! But seriously, I’d be happy as long as I had books, music, and a surfboard.
Read Ali’s bio to learn more about his experience with Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics.