Briefly, tell us about your background and career/studies up to this point?
My lack of engagement at school was followed by 10 years of random jobs (Tea boy and general gopher, assistant pest controller, dry cleaner, coach driver) until I accidentally stumbled into Brunel University Library and they unaccountably gave me a job for 5 years. After that I became ensnared in the lower echelons of higher education and moved to King’s in 2005 when I was the target of some canny headhunting.
Looking back, did the pandemic and resulting lockdowns teach you anything you’re willing to share?
Train travel is much more enjoyable when you are the only person in a carriage.
What do you think people in the School would find most surprising about you?
My steely will.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Stop worrying. Oh and try reading Dickens, honestly you’ll love him!
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
I never look forward that far.
What do you do with your time outside academia/work?
I walk, read, study the habits of habitual pub goers, and avoid responsibility.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Survival.
What is your favourite thing about working at King’s?
The small, but trusty band of reprobates I call friends/cronies.
QUICK-FIRE:
Favourite season: Autumn
Favourite London restaurant: The Electric Café (West Norwood)
Favourite book: Night and the City by Gerald Kersh
Favourite scientist: Alexander Fleming (no relation)
Favourite cuisine: Hearty British
Netflix recommendation: Don’t sell your soul to Netflix!
Coffee order: Tea
One thing you could not go a day without: The support of my loving family…
Describe yourself in three words: Irreverent (see previous answers), easy-going, confused