Briefly, tell us about your background and career up to this point?
I am a Senior Lecturer in Cardiovascular biology and the People & Culture Lead for the School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences. I am a molecular biologist and my research focuses on the use and development of human tissue models to understand the mechanisms of disease in the microvasculature.
Do you have any current projects that you’d like to tell us about?
Yes, in terms of research, my group is working on establishing a personalised screening platform for microangiopathy using patient derived organoids. For the first time we will be able to generate tiny tissue units that act as patient ‘avatars’ to monitor the microvascular response to drugs.
On the People & Culture front, we are working in the focus group to implement some great ideas to create a more inclusive environment to allow talent to thrive. We have also started a number of new initiatives, from service days and reaching out to local communities, to setting up training programmes for personal and career development.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Hopefully, we will have a better understanding of the molecular basis of microvascular dysfunction and set-up an effective system for precision medicine approaches that will translate into tailored therapies that alter the disease trajectory.
What is your favourite thing about working at King’s?
King’s BHF Centre is an ideal place for interdisciplinary research as it attracts people with very diverse expertise and backgrounds. I particularly enjoy working with so many talented people that bring different views and ideas.
What do you think people in the School would find most surprising about you?
My PhD was actually in genetics in Bactrocera oleae (formerly known as Dacus oleae), an insect that attacks olives.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Get your driving licence now, you will need as much practice as possible!
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I am very excited about the ongoing work at the People & Culture committee in our School. I am very much looking forward to organising these events that celebrate diversity and highlight underlying issues we still have to address.
QUICK-FIRE:
Favourite season: Spring, I love all the bright colours.
Favourite London restaurant: It will have to be any place by the river. The Millenium Bridge is my favourite place in London and the Tate Modern restaurant nearby combines some amazing views and good food.
Coffee order: Double espresso
One thing you could not go a day without: Chocolate!