Dr Carter obtained an MBChB from the University of Cape Town in 1994 before specialising as a chemical pathologist in Johannesburg. He was involved in teaching undergraduate medical students and registrars and was part of the team responsible for developing the Graduate Entry Medical Program at the University of the Witwatersrand.

Dr Carter moved to New Zealand in 2002 becoming Director of Pathology for Health Waikato before transferring to Queensland Health in early 2005 where he became Director of Chemical Pathology. In Mid 2007 he joined Mater Pathology to gain experience in metabolic pathology. His major interests are education & training for laboratory professionals, quality, automation & IT solutions.