Meet our Medicine Manufacturing Centre scientists

The Medicines Manufacturing Centre (MMC) is proud to introduce two colleagues who began their careers through the Scientist Training Programme.

Their experiences show how the programme helps develop talented Healthcare Scientists and why the MMC is a great place for trainees to grow.

Jody Varley, Education and Training Lead (left)

Jody leads all education and training activity at the MMC.

After completing a degree in Chemistry, she secured a place on the Scientist Training Programme in Pharmaceutical Science which allowed her to combine academic learning with hands on experience in healthcare.

She later worked in Quality Assurance before joining the MMC to support the development of staff across all roles.

Reflecting on the Scientist Training Programme, Jody says:

“The programme is incredibly important and exciting.

“It offers trainees the opportunity to work within the NHS, contribute to improving patient outcomes and develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to become successful Clinical Scientists.

“I would highly encourage graduates with a passion for science and healthcare to consider the programme as their next step.”

Carly McGurty, Deputy Head of Quality (right)

Carly oversees Quality Assurance and Validation across the MMC.

She studied Biomedical Sciences at Durham University and began her career in industry before joining the Scientist Training Programme where she discovered her passion for working closer to patients.

After graduating she became a Radiopharmacy Specialist and later joined the MMC to broaden her experience in a new and exciting technical environment.

Sharing her perspective on the programme, Carly commented:

“The rotational structure of the programme provides a fantastic foundation for anyone looking to build a career in Healthcare Science or Technical Services.

“It allows trainees to gain experience across different areas, develop a wide range of skills and discover where their interests and strengths lie.

“The programme builds strong technical and scientific expertise and also develops the professional and clinical awareness needed to work effectively in the NHS.”

Why the MMC is a great place for Scientist Training Programme trainees

The MMC offers a unique learning environment where science directly supports patient care.

Trainees can work with teams who produce ready to administer injectable medicines including chemotherapy and antibiotics which help improve safety, reduce pressure on clinical teams and support faster patient discharge.

The centre provides modern facilities, strong mentoring and the chance to work alongside experienced colleagues like Jody and Carly.

This gives Scientist Training Programme trainees a rich and varied training experience while contributing to a service that has real impact across the region.

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