Summary

I am an innovative educator, and early career researcher in the field of Medical Microbiology and antibiotic resistance.  

I use a number of interactive pedagogic techniques including, Nearpod and Turning Point to engage students and bring the clinical environment into the lecture using case based teaching and problem based learning.

My research interests include exploring how natural compounds, such as Manuka honey, can aid in the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections and how current antimicrobial prescribing regimens have the potential to increase the antimicrobial resistance of the gut microbiome.

The discovery of alternative antimicrobial compounds have the potential to reduce antibiotic prescribing, particularly in commonly diagnosed conditions such as catheter associated urinary tract infections.

Identification of the consequences of current prescribing regimens on the antimicrobial resistance of the gut microbiome could potentially reduce multi-resistant infections (particularly those associated with the urinary tract).  Evaluation of the information provided from each example could also potentially influence antimicrobial prescribing in the future.  

Biography

I joined the University of Portsmouth as a senior lecturer in Microbiology after working in the clinical environment (NHS) as a Biomedical Scientist for eleven years.  During this time, I held positions including specialist Biomedical Scientist and training officer. 

I achieved the BSc (Hons) in Applied Biomedical Science in 2004, after which I achieved the MSc in Biomedical Science in 2007.  I completed my PhD in the field of antimicrobial resistance with my primary interests being in Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase producing bacteria. 

I am currently the course leader for the MSc Medical Biotechnology, member of the Science Faculty Marketing and Outreach Committee, admissions tutor for the MPharm Pharmacy, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science and MSc Medical Biotechnology courses and coordinator for a number of undergraduate and postgraduate modules.  I am currently a Fellow of the IBMS, an HCPC registered Biomedical Scientist and a Senior Fellow of the HEA.