Staff Profile

Introduction

I am a Senior Innovation Associate with the University's Arrow programme - matching the innovation needs of North East Life Science SMEs with academic, research and Facilities expertise within the University.

Background

I completed my PhD, in the fields of Biochemistry and Molecular Microbiology, in Dr Fiona Cuskin's research group at Newcastle University. My PhD research focused on gaining an understanding of the biochemical mechanism behind complex microbial polysaccharide utilisation by prominent members of the human gut microbiota, the Bacteroidetes. I explored carbohydrate-mediated relationships between bacteria in the infant gut as well as how microbial polysaccharides found in fermented beverages can be used by bacteria present in the adult gut microbiota. By understanding how complex polysaccharides are used by gut bacteria, pre-biotic diets can be designed to modulate the composition of the gut microbiota with associated benefits on host health and wellbeing.

Having completed my PhD, I moved into industry and the oncology field whilst developing new Antibody Drug Conjugates for the treatment of solid cancer tumours, in my role as a Bioconjugation Scientist at Iksuda Therapeutics.

Qualifications

Biology PhD, Newcastle University (2018-2022)

Biology (Cellular and Molecular) BSc (Hons), Newcastle University (2015 - 2018) - First Class

PRINCE2 Project Management - Foundation (2024)

Professional Accreditation

Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA)

Memberships

Member of the Royal Society of Biology (MRSB)