Amarjit Bhomra
Lab Manager
Department of Paediatrics
Tell us a bit about your role
I manage Prof Matthew Wood’s Lab with responsibility for the day to day running of the lab, including ordering consumables, equipment servicing and repair, budgeting for new equipment, and non-research project management, such as the relocation to IDRM, including strategic planning of equipment.
I have been working with Prof Wood for over 4 years, and I have been the Lab Manager for 3 years. Prior to this I had worked for many years for Prof Jonathan Flint in the Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics (WTCHG), as a Researcher/Lab Manager.
I am the Deputy Chairperson for the Events Committee, I am on the Professional Support Staff Committee, and I am the Harassment Advisor. I feel the committees I am working with are crucial for the landscape of Medical Sciences, it will ultimately help staff with career development and the feeling of belonging to the Division.
What is the most meaningful aspect of your work?
Having effective and efficient lab facilities and functions means that research projects themselves can be effective, and also that the lab works as an efficient team resulting in a happy lab environment.
Can you tell us about something you've done, contributed to that you're most proud of?
This year, post first lockdown I managed the return to work, which was a success. I had already started to implement Bookkit for our equipment, prior to lockdown, so preparation for Return to Onsite Working (RTOSW), I was able to use it a much greater extent. We will continue to work this way moving forward. The successful return has allowed our team to make positive progress in our research projects.
I have also been involved in the practical aspects of a company that spun out from Matthew’s lab.
What changes would you most like to see in the Medical Sciences in the next 100 years?
I would like to see more career development/structure for all levels of staff, and recognition of extra responsibilities.
I would also like to see a balanced representation of both men and women in higher positions.