Dr Lorna Finch PhD

Personal Statement

Currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Liverpool in the field of Brain Infections and Neurological Disorders, Dr Finch has a central role in the development and commercialisation of technology as well as membership in the University’s Women's Leadership and Entrepreneurship and Social Enterprise Professional Interest Networks.

Gaining a PhD in Molecular Microbiology from the University of Nottingham Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Dr Finch has a natural intrigue in medtech and biotech innovations and a strong interests in the uptake, implementation and impact of novel technology in public health. Her research focuses on the novel biomarkers for diagnostic and biomedical application and she is committed to executing a commercialisation strategy for the Brain Infections Group at the University of Liverpool.

Experience
Initially trained as a Biomedical scientist, Dr Finchs' 10 year research activity has spanned across academic institutions, the NHS and the UK Civil Service leading clinical evaluation trials and In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) development towards infectious diseases, rare human diseases and host-pathogen responses. Developing diagnostic, prognostic and predictive testing assays and translating these for IVD use according regulatory requirements for quality and competence in medical laboratories, she has managed and delivered on numerous projects. Dr Finch has additionally been seconded to outbreak response scientist roles during the 2013-2016 West African Ebola virus epidemic and COVID-19 pandemic.

Prizes or Honours

• The Ebola Medal for Service in West Africa (HM Queen Elizabeth II, 2016)
• Special Contribution to Healthcare Science Award 2016 (Chief Scientific Officers, 2016)

Funded Fellowships