The VH Bio Educational Bursary

“In April 2026, I attended the Microbiology Society Annual Conference using the VH Bio Educational Bursary. As part of this I presented my work via a poster to a range of researchers from all sorts of backgrounds. As part of this I had an in depth discussion about my work and the field with someone working in industry, which not only gave me an insight into how my work can be applied but also more ideas about my own career and the types of jobs I could move into if I left academia – in the current job market, this was a truly valuable conversation.

“The conference also put on some interesting prize lectures, one of my favourites this year highlighted the importance of communicating science to the public. It was inspiring and encouraged me to get involved more in science communication. On a personal level, I also got the opportunity to meet and socialise with researchers from a diverse range of places. I also got to reconnect with people I met at a previous conference, solidifying my network. Making connections like this is essential in building a career in science, and this wouldn’t have been possible without attending the conference.

“I am truly grateful to VH Bio for the bursary; it allowed me to attend a conference in my final year of PhD study which was invaluable for building connections for my next steps.”

“Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is essential for professionals to maintain and enhance their skills, knowledge, and competence throughout their careers. It ensures professionals stay up to date with industry standards, adapt to changing technologies, and deliver high-quality services. CPD also boosts confidence, improves career prospects, and can lead to greater job satisfaction and professional growth.

As a health and care professions council (HCPC) licensed biomedical scientist my CPD is linked to my HCPC registration, and I need to meet the 5 CPD standards set by HCPC to stay registered. VH Bio Educational Bursary has been of a tremendous support to my professional development. I used the bursary to pay for my CPD Biomed Online course in renal disease at Greenwich University.

This course has helped me to keep up to date with recent developments in biomedical sciences. Through out this course I was exposed to acquisition of knowledge necessary for me to practise safely and effectively on the job. I learnt a lot of new things, one of them was ‘Developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD).

This concept suggests that adverse conditions during organogenesis increase the vulnerability to developing adult diseases. This concept is also called ‘programming’. This concept has led to a theoretical shift in the therapeutic approach from adult life to an earlier stage, namely, reprogramming, to potentially reverse disease processes before clinical disease becomes evident.

I am so grateful for the VH Bio Educational Bursary for making it possible for me to enrol unto this course.”

“Thanks to the VH Bio Educational Bursary for covering my registration fees for the 31st International ICFMH Conference FOODMICRO-2026. The reason I chose to attend FOODMICRO-2026 was that the theme and the topics of the conference were particularly well aligned with the research in food microbiology that I am doing as part of my PhD. Moreover, I also got the opportunity to present my research at the conference.

“Attending and presenting at FOODMICRO-2026 in Ljubljana, Slovenia, was a highly valuable experience for both my professional and research development. I was particularly delighted to present part of my PhD work. My presentation was entitled “From waste to taste: Developing a novel water kefir”. My talk mainly focused on the development of defined microbial communities to transform alternative food residue substrates to produce a novel, healthy, and sustainable water kefir beverage.

“The conference provided me with valuable insights into current developments in food microbiology, food safety, and innovative food fermentation solutions. More specifically, I received valuable feedback and insights from experts in the field from all around the world. The discussions I had at the conference helped me to refine my future research and provided me with potential opportunities for collaboration.

“Overall, FOODMICRO-2026 was an excellent experience, especially for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. It also further strengthened my confidence in communicating my research to a wider scientific audience.”

“As a laboratory professional, I place strong importance on delivering reliable, compliant, and high quality results. This is supported through internal quality auditing using standards such as ISO requirements, SOPs, and other regulatory frameworks. In this context, I recently participated in the “Internal Quality Auditing for Conformity Assessment Bodies” course delivered by the Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC), held virtually from 8 – 10 April 2026. I am grateful to VH Bio for supporting my participation, as it provided an invaluable opportunity to strengthen my understanding of quality and compliance systems.

“The course provided a structured and immersive journey through ISO 19011:2018 guidelines for auditing management systems, supported by clear explanations, examples, and real-world
application. A key highlight was the hands-on audit component, where we were guided through the full audit cycle. This started with developing an audit plan and preparing formal audit
documentation. We then conducted a simulated audit, which included the opening meeting, execution of audit activities, and closing meeting. The cycle concluded with the preparation of a
formal audit report based on objective findings. Throughout this process, working in groups added significant value, as collaboration with peers encouraged open discussion, shared learning, and improved our overall outputs.

“Through these exercises, I gained a practical understanding of how audits are structured and executed in real environments. More importantly, I developed stronger capability in audit planning, structured execution, identifying and classifying findings, and formal reporting. Alongside these technical skills, I also enhanced my attention to detail, critical thinking, and confidence when operating within structured audit environments. The experience further reinforced key professional principles such as maintaining impartiality, ensuring findings are evidence-based, communicating clearly without ambiguity, and upholding professionalism throughout every stage of the audit process.

“Overall, this experience strengthened my understanding of internal auditing and my ability to think in a more structured, risk-based way when assessing processes and identifying gaps in controls. As a result, I am better equipped to contribute to audit activities and support continuous improvement initiatives in my organisation. Thank you to VH Bio.”

“Attending Virus of Microbes 2026 was a very valuable experience for both my research and professional development. The conference gave me the opportunity to present my work on Hi-C rumen metagenomics and discuss it with researchers working in viral ecology, metagenomics and virus–microbe interactions. The feedback and discussions I received helped me to consider different perspectives for the interpretation of my results and provided useful ideas for the next stages of my PhD research. Importantly, the conference also gave me the opportunity to establish a new collaboration that will contribute to the next part of my project, which was a particularly valuable outcome of attending the event.

“It was also a great opportunity to learn about recent developments in the field and to connect with researchers working on related topics. Overall, I found the conference extremely rewarding, and I am very grateful to VH Bio for supporting my participation.”

“Thanks to the VH Bio Educational Bursary, I was able to attend ESCMID Global 2026. This was my first conference, and I had the opportunity to present my work as a poster.

“I chose to attend ESCMID Global 2026 because it offered a wide range of subject categories in infectious diseases and microbiology that I was keen to explore. ESCMID Global is a central hub for research and industry experts, and I was excited to gain a greater understanding of the work being done by other groups internationally.

“I presented a poster on my ongoing work, which focuses on a comparative evaluation of NGS and Sanger sequencing for human pathogen detection using 16S gene amplification. During my poster presentation, I engaged in insightful discussions and learnt the different approaches others were taking to answer similar research questions.

“Working first-hand with molecular diagnostics, I thoroughly enjoyed attending presentations and panel discussions on diagnostic microbiology by experts in the field. Learning about the benefits and challenges of traditional culture-based techniques versus up-and-coming sequencing techniques in diagnostics was particularly interesting, as I face similar challenges in my own experiments.

“Attending ESCMID Global was a highly rewarding experience for my professional development and provided valuable knowledge to advance my research. The Educational Bursary application process was clear and easy to follow. I am grateful to VH Bio for this opportunity.”

“I am incredibly grateful to have been approved for the VH Bio Educational Bursary as it allowed me to attend the British Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (BSHI) Conference 2025. As someone, new to this field, the conference was an invaluable opportunity to deepen my understanding of both current and emerging practices and technologies within H&I. 

A highlight for me was the exposure to the developments in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). We currently use it for other tests but seeing its implementation in HLA typing and how different labs have adapted it to their workflow, has opened possibilities for the future capabilities of our lab, in its clinical use and for research purposes. 

Another truly impactful moment for me, was being able to connect and network with attendees and exhibitors alike, from a diverse range of backgrounds and expertise. It brought new insight and perspectives that I hope can support our local HLA program at the Best-Dos Santos Laboratory, so that we can provide a more informed service. 

Thank you again for the incredible opportunity and for the constant support in advancing not just my career, but also the goals of a growing healthcare program in the small yet ambitious island of Barbados.”

“The VH Bio bursary greatly supported my participation in the ASM–IISc Symposium, and the application process was impressively quick and straightforward. The Symposium delivered exceptional scientific content and meaningful opportunities to connect with leading researchers in microbiology. Presenting my poster led to insightful discussions and promising collaborative avenues. I am sincerely grateful for this support and would highly recommend the bursary to early-career researchers seeking to expand their scientific reach and visibility.”

“I attended the EFI 2026 Conference in Edinburgh in April which proved to be an excellent and highly valuable experience. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to VH Bio for sponsoring my attendance and for providing me with the opportunity to present my poster on non-invasive biomarkers in kidney transplantation.

“The conference covered a broad range of topics, including significant advances in transplant immunology. These themes are directly relevant to my current research project which focuses on developing non-invasive biomarkers to predict graft rejection in kidney transplant recipients.

“The conference also provided an opportunity to engage with scientists from across Europe and to attend lectures delivered by leading experts in the field. I gained valuable insights into the application of non-invasive biomarkers in organ transplantation, as well as the importance of both HLA and non-HLA antibodies and the methodologies used for their detection. Additionally, the presentations highlighted recent advances in transplant immunology and their clinical implications, supported by real-world data.

“Overall, this was an enriching and eye-opening experience at an early stage of my academic career. It has significantly contributed to my professional development and strengthened the direction of my research. I would be highly grateful for further opportunities to attend similar conferences in the future.”

“I had the pleasure of attending the 2025 World Congress of the International Pancreas and Islet Transplant Association (IPITA) in Pisa, Italy. I greatly enjoyed the talks and found it truly inspiring to see the direction the field is taking, particularly the advances in immunomodulation approaches and stem cell therapy for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. The conference allowed me to learn from and network with experts in the field, providing valuable motivation and inspiration for my Master’s of Research at the University of Oxford.”

“Attending the EBMT 7th International Conference on Relapse After Transplant and Cellular Therapy in Madrid, Spain was an inspiring and formative experience that has significantly shaped both my ongoing MSc thesis work and my development as a Trainee Clinical Scientist. As part of the final year of the NHS Scientist Training Programme in Histocompatibility & Immunogenetics (H&I), I am currently undertaking research on HLA-DPB1 match status and its clinical implications on outcomes such as acute GVHD and disease relapse following allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This conference felt like the perfect opportunity to deepen my understanding of the wider clinical landscape in which my work sits.

“I chose to attend because the event brought together leaders in relapse biology, transplant immunology, and clinical decision-making—all areas directly relevant to refining donor selection strategies and understanding how HLA molecules may influence transplant outcome. Hearing the latest insights into relapse management, particularly for conditions such as AML and ALL, conditions that affect a large proportion of the patients my team and I support, allowed me to see how developments across disciplines ultimately translate into improved patient outcomes.

“One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the breadth of knowledge I gained around measurable residual disease (MRD) monitoring and relapse detection, and how closely clinical transplant teams and genetics and H&I laboratories must work together to guide key clinical decisions under intense time pressures. Learning how these teams collaborate to shape interventions such as donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI) or second allogeneic HSCTs has given me a far more holistic perspective on transplant care. This has already enriched my thesis work—helping me interpret HLA-related data in a more clinically grounded and context-aware manner.

“Beyond the scientific insights, the personal connections I made were just as meaningful. I had the chance to meet several clinicians and scientists I frequently communicate with but had never met in person. Putting faces to names helped me appreciate the wider clinical community I am part of and gave me an even stronger sense of purpose in the work we do at NHSBT. I returned feeling proud, energised, and more connected to the impact our laboratory contributions have on patients undergoing HSCT.

“I am incredibly grateful to VH Bio for supporting my attendance through their Educational Bursary. The application process was simple and encouraging, and it prompted me to reflect on the learning opportunities that would truly support my growth—many of which would otherwise be financially difficult to pursue. I would strongly recommend that anyone considering applying for the bursary takes the step; you never know what doors it may open or how profoundly it may enhance your professional journey.”

“Attending the King John Price Conference 2026 was an extremely valuable experience for my professional development as a paediatric respiratory physiotherapist. The conference provided a rich platform for learning, reflection, and networking within the respiratory community.

One of the most significant impacts on my development was the opportunity to engage with the latest evidence-based practices across a range of respiratory conditions. The sessions enhanced my understanding of emerging approaches, particularly in areas such as dysfunctional breathing, asthma care pathways, and use of AI in healthcare. This has directly informed my clinical reasoning and strengthened my ability to deliver patient-centred, evidence-based interventions.

A key learning objective for me was to deepen my knowledge of practical issues in applying the new asthma NICE guidelines: MART and AIR and optimise treatment planning for complex patient groups. Through attending expert-led talks, I gained practical insights into improving airway clearance strategies, tailoring my management, and integrating multidisciplinary approaches into care. These learning opportunities have increased my confidence in managing patients with diverse and complex respiratory needs.

The poster presentations were another highlight of the conference. They showcased innovative research and service developments, providing inspiration for quality improvement initiatives within my own practice. Engaging with presenters allowed me to explore ideas in more detail and consider how similar approaches could be implemented locally.

In addition, the conference provided an excellent environment for networking. Connecting with fellow physiotherapists and other paediatric healthcare professionals enabled the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices. These discussions were invaluable in broadening my perspective and fostering a sense of professional community.

The VH Bio Educational Bursary provided me with an excellent opportunity to be able to attend the King John Price Conference which was a highly positive and enriching experience. It has enhanced both my clinical knowledge and professional confidence, while also motivating me to continue developing my practice and contributing to improvements in respiratory care.”

“I attended the 3rd Microbes in Women’s Health Congress. I chose this conference because it aligns closely with my research area, and several of the presenters are leading experts in the field.

“Attending the Microbes in Women’s Health Congress was a really valuable experience for my professional development and ongoing research. One of the most beneficial aspects was the opportunity to meet both peers and leading researchers in the field. I was also able to connect in person with people I had previously only communicated with via email, which helped strengthen those relationships. The connections I made at this conference may help support future collaborations and strengthen my professional network. I hope these relationships will be valuable for both my current research and future opportunities.

“I gained a lot of useful insight into emerging research in women’s health microbiology through both presentations and poster sessions. It was especially helpful to see how others are approaching similar research questions and what methods they are using. One of the most valuable parts was being able to speak directly with researchers who have already carried out experiments similar to those I am planning. This gave me practical advice on how to approach my own experiments, as well as things to watch out for, which will be really useful moving forward.

“Overall, the conference was a really positive and worthwhile experience. It provided a great balance of learning, networking, and discussion. The chance to engage directly with others in the field made it particularly impactful.

“The bursary application process was very straightforward and easy to follow. I would definitely recommend that others apply.

“The bursary from VH Bio was essential for my ability to attend the 2025 Research Quality Association International Conference in Belfast: their support with the registration allowed me to justify and obtain further funding for travel and subsistence through my university in times when spending is tightly controlled. The conference was a great event, with plenty of speakers with global knowledge of how best to implement regulatory compliance (at European and USA level) in the context of pharmaceutical and clinical research. I learned lots on the day-to-day practicalities of assuring quality in our clinical research work: how to manage this type of work practically and empathetically within my team, how to document our quality efforts as well as how to be prepared for future inspections; all for the benefit of the participants in trials that are going to lead to improved medical care. In particular, the workshop and talks about how quality managers interact with research labs delivering services for clinical trials allowed me to contribute with my own personal experience and to bring home easy tips that will facilitate my lab involvement in future work. An excellent opportunity, so much so that since returning from the conference I have been invited to join (and done so!) the RQA Northern Regional Forum as well as the RQA Research Practice Group (Special Interest Group).

“I am truly grateful to VH Bio for their support as the conference represented a solid stepping stone on my professional development and on the introduction of Quality Assurance across our research facilities.”

“I would like to sincerely thank VH Bio for supporting my participation in the EFI 2026 conference. Attending the meeting was a very valuable experience for my professional development, allowing me to learn more about current topics in immunogenetics and transplantation, while also connecting these topics to my own day-to-day work.

Throughout the conference, I attended sessions covering hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, bioinformatics, solid organ transplantation, and post-transplant monitoring. One of the most interesting aspects for me was seeing how areas such as machine learning and bioinformatics are increasingly being applied to HLA analysis and transplant outcomes, as well as learning more about new approaches for patient monitoring and immunological risk assessment.

Beyond the scientific programme, the conference was also a great opportunity to connect with researchers and professionals from different countries and institutions. I had the chance to meet people from many different places, exchanging ideas and experiences that gave me a broader perspective on the field. I believe this type of interaction is one of the most valuable parts of attending an international conference.

Overall, it was a very positive and motivating experience, both scientifically and personally. I am very grateful to VH Bio for making this opportunity possible, and I am sure that the knowledge gained and the connections made during the meeting will be valuable for my future work.”