I have spent my research career working on diseases of veterinary and medical importance applying latest cutting-edge technologies to understand disease mechanisms for improved diagnosis or treatment. Originally from Germany I came to England to study for my first degree in Biology at Imperial College, London. I stayed at Imperial College to study for a PhD in Biology (Parasitology) under the supervision of Prof E.U. Canning and Dr Elsa Posnett. My first postdoctoral position was at the Pirbright Institute to work on a DFID funded project, where I developed and field trialled the now commercially available rapid diagnostic rinderpest test (Svanova Biotech AB product-Ag10-4300-13) as part of the global rinderpest eradication program (GREP). Subsequently, I relocated to the University of Leeds, where I was working for 18 years investigating the mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression. After studying colorectal, epithelial ovarian and bladder cancer I gained in depth knowledge of one of the most devastating cancer types, Glioblastoma. High grade brain tumours remain difficult to treat due to their diffuse and infiltrating nature and present with a low 5-year survival rate. My approach is to target cell migration/invasion in these tumours as potential combination treatment as recurrence of tumours driven by cellular migration/invasion is the main cause of death.
I am also actively involved in public engagement. I have won awards for the creation of a video to raise awareness about brain tumours and soft cuddly toys including a quilted brain with detachable tumour. I have been guest speaker at the Otley Science Club and have a stand at Otley Science Fair. I also was chosen by the Royal Zoological Society to take part in the Soapbox Science scheme.
