My research interests lie at the interface of chemical biology, molecular biosciences, and biotechnology, with a focus on understanding how bioactive metal-based compounds interact with biological systems and influence cellular processes. I am particularly interested in investigating molecular mechanisms underlying cellular responses, developing innovative drug delivery approaches using nanotechnology, and exploring how interdisciplinary methods can advance our understanding of biological processes and disease mechanisms. Through integrating chemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology, I aim to contribute to fundamental bioscience and the development of innovative approaches with potential applications in human health.
Scientific Inspiration
Prof. Stephen Lippard – one of the pioneers of the field of bioinorganic chemistry. His sustained scientific creativity over many decades and attention to detail is very inspiring. I was fortunate to work in his research group in Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA) from 2012 to 2014.
In three words or phrases: student-centred, organised, outcome-oriented.
Provision of Training
I would initially provide hands-on guidance and support with your technical training, gradually encouraging you to develop the skills and confidence to work independently.
Progression Monitoring and Management
I will support your progress through regular meetings, clear milestones, and constructive feedback, while encouraging increasing independence. We will work together to address challenges and ensure you develop the skills and confidence to succeed.
Communication
I will maintain open and supportive communication through regular meetings and email, encouraging you to raise any concerns or challenges early. I value a healthy work/life balance and will support you in accessing appropriate pastoral support when needed.
Meetings
PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per fortnight. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.
Work Patterns
Work in my lab requires being present on site (be it in a laboratory or at a field site) during the core hours of 9am - 5pm (or a subset if working part time).
Notice Period for Feedback
I need at least 1 week's notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5,000 words.
MIBTP Project Details
Primary supervisor for:
See the PhD Opportunities section to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.
Please Note: The main page lists projects via BBSRC Research Theme(s) quoted and then relevant Topic(s).
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern worldwide. According to the latest statistics, bacterial AMR was responsible for 4.71 million deaths in 2021. If no new antimicrobials are developed, the World Health Organisation predicts that AMR will cost the world economy $100 trillion by 2050. Given the clinical and financial burden imposed on society by AMR, it is imperative that new antimicrobial agents are developed that can overcome AMR. Antimicrobial drug development has largely focused on organic small molecules and natural products. These agents are typically one-dimensional and tend to target a specific biochemical process within bacteria, allowing for the possibility of AMR to occur more readily. It is more advantageous to develop antimicrobial agents that can simultaneously target several physiological and metabolic functions within bacteria, leading to multiple modes of action. This approach could reduce the rate at which AMR occurs and thus help alleviate the global health threat imposed by AMR.
Antimicrobial agents containing metals (metallo-antimicrobials) have recently received widespread attention as potential next generation antimicrobials due to their versatile and diverse physical and chemical properties. In this project, we aim to develop metallo-antimicrobials (containing sliver, gold, copper or gallium) that can act across multiple domains and potentially overcome AMR. The project will involve chemical synthesis and characterisation of novel metalloantimicrobials (using spectroscopic and analytical methods), studying the antimicrobial potential of the metallo-antimicrobials in vitro (bacterial cultures and biofilm), determining the mechanisms of action(s) of the metalloantimicrobials using global RNA sequencing and proteomics techniques.
