We were invited for a lab tour by Dr Mike Eden, who is the College’s Clinical Director of Patient Safety and Quality, Chair of the College’s Patient Safety Steering Group and the lab’s Histopathology Clinical Lead.
Based at 1000 Discovery Drive on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, the lab has been purpose built and houses several cutting‑edge systems designed to enhance safety, efficiency and diagnostic quality.
During the visit, we met with senior staff and members of the laboratory management team, who guided us through the lab space. They showcased new equipment such as automated block trimming technology, enhanced digital imaging setups and a unique formalin dispensing and disposal system (the only one currently in use within an NHS histopathology service).
These changes represent more than technological upgrades. They reflect a strategic shift towards safer workflows, improved staff wellbeing and reduced risk through smarter, error‑minimising design. The Cambridge team shared insights into how their approach is helping support training, retention and national best practice.
A full feature on the visit, including a deeper look at how the department is shaping the future of laboratory practice, will appear in the upcoming issue of the Bulletin. Keep an eye out for it!
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