Dr. Tom Bullock is the Interim Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), a position he has held since late 2023. He is the professional lead for the organization’s scientific workforce, who help to ensure the safety and efficacy of blood and organ donations for medical treatments. His role involves guiding research, shaping scientific policies, and driving innovation.
Dr. Bullock maintains his role as a Consultant Clinical Scientist specializing in Red Cell Immunohaematology. His expertise has significantly contributed to NHSBT’s understanding and management of blood disorders, particularly Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD). He has delivered presentations on the discovery of novel blood group systems, the challenges of investigating samples from patients with SCD the subsequent management of SCD patients, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnostics and improved laboratory practices.
Dr. Bullock is also actively involved in scientific and clinical education within NHSBT and the wider NHS as part of work to implement recommendations from the Infected Blood Inquiry (IBI). He co-leads initiatives aimed at identifying knowledge gaps among Biomedical Scientists, working to enhance training programs and improve transfusion laboratory safety. His efforts ensure that laboratory professionals receive the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain high standards of patient care.
Beyond his leadership, subject matter expert and educational roles, Dr. Bullock engages with the wider medical community through conferences and webinars. He has highlighted NHSBT’s role in supporting SCD patients, advocating for enhanced collaboration to improve treatment and patient outcomes.
Through his leadership, research contributions, and commitment to education, Dr. Bullock plays a vital role in NHSBT’s mission to provide a safe and reliable supply of blood, organs, and associated services, ultimately improving patient care and advancing transfusion medicine.
The impact and implications for patients and pathology services of the infected blood inquiry Tuesday @ 3:05 PM
In June 2021, David became the IBMS Chief Executive following leading the NHS England and Improvement Pathology consolidation programme as Head of Pathology for NHS England and NHS Improvement. He led England’s pathology services in the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that NHS laboratories were able to respond to the national need in standing up the required testing at pace and scale.
For three years running, David was recognised as being one of the top 100 most powerful advocates for pathology in the global community by The Pathologist magazine (2018, 2019 and 2020).
Previously, as an elected IBMS Council Member for the London region, David was chair of the Membership and Marketing Committee. He has also represented the IBMS on NICE diagnostic advisory panels, and various national forums, including an observer on the Royal College of Pathologist Council and in the Parliamentary and Science committee.
In October 2020, the Royal College of Pathologists awarded David Honorary Fellowship in recognition of his contribution to pathology.
The 2025 review of diagnostic laboratory services: The state of the nation Tuesday @ 4:25 PM
