Dr Amanda Rossiter

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

The Rossiter lab focuses on the bacterium H. pylori and its dichotomic association with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and gastric cancer. Epidemiology suggests that gastric H. pylori infection can protect against IBD, yet H. pylori is most famous for being the biggest risk factor for gastric cancer. Amanda’s lab uses a combination of human clinical samples, mouse models and in vitro systems to investigate the mechanisms underpinning these fascinating relationships between H. pylori and its human host, with a specific focus on the manipulation of the host immune system and gastrointestinal microbiome by H. pylori.

Scientific Inspiration

Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell. Professor Bell Burnell was credited with "one of the most significant scientific achievements of the 20th century" for her discovery of a type of neutron star. However, her discovery was credited to her male supervisor who was awarded a Nobel prize. I was inspired by her resilience and optimism considering this lack of recognition. Professor Bell Burnell also donated £2.3m to the UK institute of Physics to promote underrepresented groups in Physics. A truly wonderful and remarkable scientist!

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: goal-driven, compassionate, motivational.

Provision of Training

I take responsibility for your technical training at first. I train you on attention to details because this is what drives success in your independent studies later on in the programme.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I will set out my expectations of your progression on a weekly/monthly basis. If these progression criteria are not met, we will always discuss a plan of action together. I will push you to reach your full potential.

Communication

The team has a Slack group chat with which we regularly communicate during the week. Whilst I expect you to keep up with my/ team communications, I will expect you to manage your work/life balance. I am always happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/our expectations.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In a group meeting

At least once per week

These meetings will be mainly face to face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Working Pattern

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Dr Rossiter is supervising no projects this year.