I studied Biology at the University of Bath, graduating with a BSc(Hons) in 2022.
Within my degree programme, I carried out a year in industry at PHE Porton Down. In this role, I contributed to the UK's response to the COVID-19 pandemic by testing blood samples for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, generating national sero-prevalence data. I was also a member of the TB drug discovery & evaluation group. Here, I carried out a research project exploring the impact of carbon deprivation on antibiotic susceptibility in M. smegmatis.
When I returned to university for my final year of studies, I investigated the role of notch signalling during early nervous system development, using fluorescent reporter genes in a zebrafish embryo model.
The TRACS-Liverpool (Tracking AMR Across Care Settings in Liverpool) study aims to track transmission of extended-spectrum beta lactamase and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E/CPE) in hospitals and care homes in Liverpool. We will do this by recruiting care home and hospital patients and collecting stool and associated environmental samples over a period of months. By testing these samples for ESBL-E/CPE organisms and using gene sequencing techniques to track bacteria we hope to identify where transmission of resistant bacteria is happening. We then aim to combine this information with routine data on antibiotic usage and patterns of care and will work with the hospital flow teams and participating care homes to co-design and pilot interventions to block transmission and, ultimately, reduce the number of drug-resistant infections.