Dr Jennifer Heaney

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Dr Jennifer Heaney

Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Jennifer’s research has three core areas of focus, which often intersect:

Immunoassay design, development, and validation.
Myeloma biology.
Basic immunology research with an emphasis on oral immunity.

Jennifer is passionate about developing testing solutions that are low-cost and straightforward to remove obstacles to achieving patient benefits and to improve access to testing. She collaborates with industry partners to develop and manufacture tests.

She is currently working on a rapid test to help tackle diagnostic delay in myeloma and improve access to myeloma testing in low-middle income countries. This work is being supported by CRUK.

Her other ongoing immunoassay projects include: validating a new sensitive laboratory method for detecting and monitoring low-level myeloma disease, rapid testing to assess protection against disease to inform vaccination, and high sensitivity non-invasive testing for applications in multiple sclerosis.

Alongside immunoassay development, Jennifer continues research into myeloma biology, namely immunosuppression in myeloma, and oral immunity. She is particularly interested in differences between oral and systemic immunity and is investigating this theme in both health and disease.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, Flexible, Goal-driven.

Provision of Training

Training would be provided by members of the team and laboratory on relevant techniques and methods. Once you are trained in key techniques and tests, I would expect you to provide input and ultimately develop independence for planning your own experimental work. I encourage students to attend relevant training courses (e.g. statistics and writing) and take part in activities and events that can complement and enhance their wider development as a postgraduate researcher (e.g. journals clubs, seminars, conferences).

Progression Monitoring and Management

We will agree on expectations of your progression on a weekly/monthly basis. On a day to day and weekly basis, I expect you to take ownership of your own work and progress but seek help for troubleshooting. I have high expectations, will provide a supportive and motivating working environment, and will deliver project guidance, but it is your responsibility to push yourself to your full potential.

Communication

Communication is predominately via email however I can be contacted via text or WhatsApp if a more urgent response is required. I will expect you to check your emails regularly within core hours. I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/our expectations. If extra support is required, I will direct or encourage self-referral to the Medical & Dental College PGR student support team.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once a month

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per month

The monthly meetings will be face to face, the others will be a mixture of face to face or online and I am usually contactable for an instant response 2 or 3 days per week.

Working Pattern

Work in my laboratory generally requires being present on site during the core hours (9-5) Monday to Friday. However, there is flexibility around this depending on the student and the work required.

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 Jennifer Heaney is supervising no projects this year.