What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
I studied Biology, Chemistry, and Maths at A-level. I wanted to be a vet when I was 16!
What degree/PhD did you study?
I completed a BSc (Hons) in Zoology at the University of Liverpool, followed by a PhD in Molecular Microbiology also at Liverpool.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I always wanted to be a vet, but unfortunately didn’t achieve the grades in Chemistry, even after resitting the A-level. However, that resit year gave me some amazing opportunities alongside my studies – working on a game reserve in South Africa and doing a placement at Chester Zoo, which helped me decide to pursue Zoology. During my degree, I loved the animal behaviour modules, but I was also fascinated by disease, pathogens, and parasites.
What key skills did you learn at university?
My degree helped me develop critical thinking and communication skills, especially in writing and presenting. I also gained practical experience in the lab and field, as well as IT and data analysis skills. I learned to seek feedback and use it to keep improving.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I have had lots of interesting part-time jobs as a student, including working on a turkey farm and hatchery, in a veterinary practice, and even in a textile cleaning factory. I also held more typical roles such as shop assistant and waitress. Later, I moved into academic positions as a post-doctoral research assistant (PDRA) and lecturer.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I'm a Senior Lecturer and the Programme Director for Microbiology and Infection at the University of Liverpool. I'm also the Employability Lead and Widening Participation Lead. I love combining teaching with supporting students in developing the skills they need for their future careers. I also enjoy the variety in my job, no two days are ever the same. My favourite day of the year is graduation day, when we get to celebrate students' achievements, especially knowing how hard they’ve worked and the challenges they’ve overcome.
Do you have an area of expertise/research?
My scientific research focused on Microbiology, particularly molecular microbiology and food-borne pathogens such as Campylobacter. Now, I'm in a teaching and scholarship role, my research centres on education, especially employability and skills development, student support and widening participation.
What are your top tips for working in your industry/sector?
Collaboration is key! Don’t be afraid to reach out to people for advice and support. It’s important to learn from others, and people are happy to support if you need help with something.
Any advice you’d like to share?
Ignore imposter syndrome and go for opportunities as they come up. Even if it doesn’t work out the first time, you’ll gain feedback to help you next time (and there will be a next time). Keep developing yourself, whether through further study or training, or by working on things you’d like to improve. This helps improve your confidence.
I feel incredibly privileged to be in a job I love and I'm always happy to support others in achieving their career goals.
Why are you passionate about your subject/career/STEM?
As a first-generation female academic from a working-class background, I understand the barriers to higher education. I'm passionate about supporting women and underrepresented groups in science because I believe diversity drives innovation, and everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or identity.
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