Graduation profile: Dissertation research opens up new role at medical laboratory for Cassie

Cassie Erskine is due to start a new job as a Medical Laboratory Assistant in the NHS Highland Blood Sciences Laboratory which was the focus of her final-year dissertation.

Cassie (26), who graduated with a BSc (Hons) Bioscience degree, received mentorship and the Orion Group Undergraduate Scholarship during her studies. She decided to pursue a scientific career when she moved back to Inverness to be closer to her family after living in New Zealand for  eight years.

“With UHI Inverness being my local university, it was the perfect opportunity to study a subject I am passionate about, while living at home in the Highlands,” she said.

Her dissertation, in partnership with NHS Highland Blood Sciences Laboratory, examined how storage affects full blood count results and cell morphology across varied clinical conditions. The findings may inform improved clinical protocols across NHS Scotland.

Cassie also collaborated with a local veterinary practice to assess waste management strategies and propose sustainable alternatives. Her work is helping the practice align with Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan.

Through the UHI Employer Mentor Programme, she received career guidance from a Lifescan professional, gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities.

“I’d recommend the programme to every UHI student,” she said.

Cassie appreciated the close-knit learning environment and flexible online classes, which allowed her to balance studies with part-time work and NHS volunteering.

“UHI Inverness has allowed me to develop a solid foundation of technical and analytical skills that will prepare me for a long-lasting career in science,” she said.

“It also allowed me to network with professionals working in a variety of scientific disciplines, to understand their career paths and current roles.”