What did you study at A-level and why did you select those subjects?
A-Level Biology, Chemistry, Art and General Studies. I chose subjects that I was interested in and that would help me progress towards a career in biosciences.
What degree and PhD did you study?
I completed a BSc in Pharmacology at the University of Liverpool and then went on to complete a PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology within the same department.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
Pharmacology offered a mix of subjects taught in an applied way. It provided a strong foundation in physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and chemistry. I love understanding how things work and solving problems. Pharmacology enabled me to do this while helping people, by developing new medicines and trying to make medicines safer.
What key skills did you learn at university?
Time management - I juggled a competitive paddling career alongside my PhD studies. I also developed resilience, perseverance and teamwork, skills which I continue to use today.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I completed two postdoctoral research projects that provided different experiences and skill sets: one an industrial (Pfizer) sponsored project and one Wellcome Trust funded project.
After completing five years as PDRA, I secured a lectureship at a post-92 university, which required me to teach generic bioscience skills rather than my pharmacology expertise. During this role, I developed a passion for public engagement and became the School External Engagement Lead.
Alongside my day job, I have also held a variety of lead volunteer roles for Girlguiding Cheshire Forest. I also consult and provide expertise to develop and deliver large-scale STEM public engagement events.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I returned to Liverpool in 2023 to take up the role of Department Education Lead, and subsequently Deputy Head of the Pharmacology and Therapeutics department.
Do you have an area of research?
My research interest as a PDRA included understanding drug induced liver injury and developing novel anti-malarial compounds. My current wet lab research focuses on bile duct cancer (Cholangiocarcinoma), with a view to developing new therapeutic approaches. I established the precision cut tissue slice model in the Human Liver Research Facility.
As an engaged scholar, my scholarship involves using narratives to convey complex ideas and to support student skill development through public engagement and outreach. I am also passionate about encouraging girls, women, or anyone who identifies as a woman into STEM. Science is for everyone, and we need to keep challenging stereotypes.
What has been your most exciting project?
I led the development of Liverpool’s Party People for the British Science Festival 2025—an immersive 'science of a night out' experience developed by the pharmacology team.
What are your top tips for working in your sector?
- Lead by example
- Work smarter, not harder
- Collaboration over competition is key #TeamScience
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Find yourself a critical friend and mentor. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Any advice you’d like to share?
Science influences so much of our lives. Find your passion and go for it!
Everything happens for a reason, and when you have a setback or face challenges, it may simply not be the right time or opportunity. Keep going! You never know if another young scientist is watching and looking to you for inspiration. It took me a while to establish my own lab and find my research niche, but now it is my time to shine!
Why are you passionate about your career?
For me, it’s the lightbulb moments—when the penny drops and people understand the concept you're trying to explain, and see why it's relevant and important to them.
More resources:
Article: NC3RS Marvellous Medicine
Interview: WAGGGS #womeininscience series
Laura Randle Website
University of Liverpool Staff Profile
Keep up to date with Laura on Instagram, Bluesky and LinkedIn