Dr Rianne Lord

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick

Scientific Background

Research Interests

My research focuses on the design and development of novel metallodrugs for the treatment of disease, for example, cancer and antimicrobial resistance, with particular emphasis on using biocompatible and non-toxic metals. We explore how the unique redox properties and coordination environments of metals can be harnessed to achieve selective uptake, distribution, and targeting of biomolecules within cells. Alongside synthetic chemistry and characterisation, we apply a range of chemical biology techniques—including whole-cell ICP-MS, EPR spectroscopy, microscopy, and 3D cell culture models—to study how these compounds behave in biologically relevant, tumour-like environments. This interdisciplinary approach allows us to gain mechanistic insight into how metal-based drugs function at the cellular level and supports the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Research Groups

Lord Research Group

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: student-centred, inclusive, collaborative.

Provision of Training

I provide tailored, hands-on training that integrates synthetic chemistry, analytical techniques, and chemical biology methods, ensuring PhD students gain both technical expertise and transferable skills. Regular one-to-one mentoring, group meetings, and opportunities for conference participation support their academic development and career progression. Training will be supervised by me and the group's postdocs/PhD students.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I encourage students to take full ownership of their research while actively engaging with the team for collaborative problem-solving and support. Progress is closely monitored through regular one-to-one meetings to review training needs and plan upcoming work, complemented by quarterly progress reviews and annual assessments in line with institutional requirements. This structured approach ensures timely feedback, clear goal-setting, and early identification of any challenges, supporting continuous academic and professional development.

Communication

I am readily available via email and Teams, though while I may send messages outside of regular hours, I do not expect responses until standard working times. Communication is kept professional and within working hours, with no use of informal platforms like WhatsApp. I maintain open and consistent communication through weekly one-to-one meetings and team discussions, creating space for ongoing dialogue and collaborative support. Expectations and feedback are communicated clearly to ensure alignment on goals and to foster a supportive, inclusive research environment. I’m always available to discuss any personal or academic challenges and will actively support students in accessing further help if needed.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per week. These meetings will be a mixture of face-to-face and via video chat or telephone. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Work Patterns

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 5,000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Primary supervisor for:

Project Title

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).

Project Title

Secondary Supervisor(s):

University of Registration:

BBSRC Research Themes:

Sustainable Agriculture and Food (Animal Health and Welfare, Microbial Food Safety, Plant and Crop Science)
Renewable Resources and Clean Growth (Bio-energy, Industrial Biotechnology)
Understanding the Rules of Life (Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Plant Science, Soil Science, Stem Cells, Structural Biology, Systems Biology)
Integrated Understanding of Health (Ageing, Diet and Health, Pharmaceuticals, Regenerative Biology)

Project Outline

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Co-supervisor on a project / projects with: