Thesis Title: “Molecular Determinants of Influenza A Virus Cross-species Jumps”I investigated how small changes in the genetic make up of closely related viruses can lead to big differences in the way they infect different species of host. I have identified two changes which allow “bird flu” strains to more easily infect mammals. My research involved cell lines from different species, birds, horses and other mammals. I have also worked with ex vivo organ culture and the developed a way to measure virus enzymatic activity in an equine cell line, which has never been done before.During my PhD I balanced my time between getting on with my research, and my abiding love of talking (and writing) about it. I really enjoy the chance to tell people of all ages and backgrounds about what we do as scientists and why. It’s no good predicting the next flu pandemic if no one knows about it!