A University of Staffordshire academic has been recognised in His Majesty the King’s Birthday Honours for his outstanding contribution to the NHS and biomedical science education.
Ian Davies, Associate Professor of Biomedical Science Practice at University of Staffordshire, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to the NHS Diagnostic Pathology Service and to Biomedical Science Education.
Before moving into academia full-time in 2015, Ian spent over two decades in the NHS, where he led clinical chemistry services and played a key role in workforce development and service transformation. He has since become a leading national figure in biomedical science education, known for driving innovation and championing collaboration between the NHS and universities.
His work has included leading on degree apprenticeships, embedding simulation and interprofessional learning into biomedical science programmes, and supporting national COVID-19 testing training with NHS England. A strong advocate for patient-focused education, Ian is committed to building a diverse and highly skilled scientific workforce equipped to tackle today’s healthcare challenges and tomorrow’s innovations.
In 2023, Ian was named Biomedical Scientist of the Year for his pioneering work on degree apprenticeships – a programme he leads at the university which is helping develop apprentices from more than 25 NHS Trusts.
Ian said: “I’m honoured and completely humbled by this recognition. It reflects not just my work, but the incredible support and collaboration of a fantastic team around me and leaders who’ve had the faith to back me over the years. I’m proud to play a small part in shaping the future of biomedical science and the real privilege is working with such inspiring colleagues, students and graduates who continue to push boundaries every day.”
University of Staffordshire Vice-Chancellor Professor Martin Jones praised Ian’s wide-reaching impact: “Ian has built a powerful national network and reputation over the last decade, and he consistently uses this platform to spotlight others – from NHS partners to our own students and graduates. He is a trusted voice within his profession and a fantastic ambassador for University of Staffordshire and biomedical science.”
Mike Phillips, Executive Dean of the School of Health, Education, Policing and Sciences, added: “Ian is an outstanding academic whose work has had a transformative impact on both education and clinical practice. He has an unwavering passion for supporting learners and developing a future-facing scientific workforce. This recognition is truly well deserved.”
The King’s Birthday Honours list celebrates individuals across the UK for their extraordinary service and contributions to public life.