Dr Nicole Robb

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick

Scientific Background

Research Interests

The diverse grouping of RNA viruses includes many important human, animal and plant pathogens. The diseases caused by these viruses include influenza, COVID-19, Zika, Ebola, rabies, polio and measles, all of which result in substantial mortality in humans as well as having severe economic impacts worldwide. In addition to causing seasonal epidemics or localized outbreaks, many of these viruses have pandemic potential, as epitomized by the 2009 ‘Swine flu’ and the current COVID-19 pandemic. Despite significant progress in the study of these viruses, many fundamental unanswered questions remain.

In our lab, we combine traditional biology methods with single-molecule biophysics to study how these viruses replicate, using influenza and coronaviruses as our primary models. We also develop novel fluorescence-based methods for rapid viral detection and diagnosis. The goal of our interdisciplinary approach is to allow us to understand the basic biology of RNA viruses and lead to new ways to diagnose and combat viral disease.

Scientific Inspiration

Dorothy Hodgkin, not only an exceptional Noble prize-winning scientist but a great role-model for balancing work with family.

Research Groups

Robb Lab

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, freedom to explore, career-development.

Provision of Training

I take a very hands-on approach to training new students and will work with you myself as much as I can. As you progress and become more confident you will be encouraged to try out new methods and approaches independently. I like to pair up new students with a more experienced post-doc or student to give some additional support when needed.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to be kept up to date on progress, but I’m not a micro-manager. We will have regular individual meetings (to talk through not only the ups but also the downs!) as well as group meetings where you will get the chance to present your results more formally. I respect people taking ownership of their project, and am open to suggestions for new directions or approaches. Most of all, I’m here to give advice and guidance when you need it.

Communication

We use email or Teams to chat to each other, and we have a WhatsApp group chat with which we regularly communicate when we aren’t in the lab.

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

The meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone and I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.

Working Pattern

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

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

Current Projects (2025-26)

Co-supervisor on projects with Professor Anne Straube and Dr Jeremy Keown.

Previous Projects (2024-25)

Co-supervisor on projects with Dr Jeremy Keown, Dr Anne Straube and Dr Craig Thompson.