Edward Scourfield obtained his PhD in cell biology and virology here at KCL in 2020, following which he worked for a short period as a postdoctoral scientist setting up the college’s in-house COVID19 testing facility, KCL-TEST, and doing SARS-CoV-2 related research during the pandemic. From this he transitioned into a Deputy Laboratory Manager role, facilitating the every day running of the facility and preparing the lab for UKAS accreditation to ISO standard 15189, which was obtained in December 2023.

The new CDDU (Clinical Diagnostics Development Unit) was formed off the back of KCL-TEST, following its success, and Edward joined this new unit from its inception as Accreditation and R&D Manager. Edward has extensive experience in molecular and cell biology, virology and protein chemistry, and in his current role works towards the development and optimisation of tests and assays to offer at the CDDU.

Importantly, he works towards harmonisation of protocols for the processing of clinical samples from across the university and external clients, to help facilitate interdisciplinary research across labs and disease pathways.