In this role my research focuses on unravelling the mechanisms driving hematopoietic stem cell formation during embryogenesis. I have a particular interest in how extrinsic signaling from the niche influences hematopoietic commitment, and whether this knowledge could be translated to in vitro cultures.My work is supported by a Health Research BC Research Trainee Award.

I sought this position to enhance my molecular biology and in vivo skills within a research group focused on leukaemia, haematopoiesis, and innate immune signalling. Within this position I was responsible for writing, amending and renewing all animal care protocols within the group. I managed a project investigating the development of tumours within an inducible lung-cancer mouse model. This project investigated how the loss of a tumour suppressor protein affects development of tumours through modification of the microenvironment and exogenous signalling.

In this position I managed multiple projects with external collaborators to establish the efficacy of pHion’s non-viral gene delivery systems with varied anionic therapeutics including DNA, mRNA, CRISPR and small molecules in vitro and in vivo. I was responsible for experimental design, formulation optimization, functionality testing in vitro and in vivo, and data presentation. The role required a broad knowledge of molecular biology, extensive trouble-shooting skills and the ability to rapidly digest complex information. I regularly provided technical expertise to the company’s collaborators, and produce technical reports and presentations. Some of my highlights working for pHion were:• Representing the company at the Bio-Europe networking event, and successfully introducing new collaborators into the company• Leading a multi-disciplinary team to complete several key projects under time constraints • Designing and implementing new company SOPs

Within this project I formulated and optimised a novel non-viral gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration. The project objectives included: formulation of cationic nanoparticles encapsulating pDNA encoding a novel anti-angiogenic peptide; Characterisation of the physiochemical properties and stability of nanoparticles; Analysis of nanoparticle functionality in vitro and in vivo; Assessment of the anti-angiogenic effects of nanoparticle treatment via ELISA, wound scratch, proliferation and tubule formation assays. During this project I :• Collaborated with a multi-disciplinary team to meet the project objectives and deadlines• Developed new research techniques within the research group• Created a new system for the management of lab consumables for a team of approximately 20 researchers. The system ensures timely ordering of supplies, reducing expenditure and lost time.• Generated data that is currently being used to support a patent application on which I am a named author.

During this period I worked in a post funded by a new QUB spin-out company, pHion. pHion holds the IP for several gene delivery peptides and in this role I was involved in establishing the versatility and efficacy of these peptides with various in-house and collaborator anionic cargos.• Optimised new nanoparticle formulations including DNA, mRNA, siRNA, miRNA and small molecules• Independently planned, executed and trouble-shot workplans for new projects• Developed and trouble-shot new techniques and methods within the research group• Created a portfolio of data to highlight the efficacy of the gene delivery platforms, which has attracted new collaborators• Managed multiple projects simultaneously, prioritised tasks to meet deadlines, and produced reports for collaborators

Following my pre-registration training I began working as a locum pharmacist in the greater Belfast Area. I have a passion for healthcare and in this position I enjoyed continuing to provide key pharmacy services as a Responsible Pharmacist. Following commencement of my PhD I continued to work as a locum community pharmacist to enable me to continue to provide clinical services. This role allowed me to develop the ability to transition seamlessly into new environments, and rapidly adjust to working with novel systems and with colleagues of varied experience.Additional key responsibilities and services included:• Legal and clinical accuracy checks• Provision of Medicine’s Use Reviews• Substitute Dispensing for Opioid dependence• Emergency Medicine Supply, including involvement in the Emergency Supply Pilot Service • Oxygen supply• Management and training of staff• Stock management and ordering of special items

I undertook my pre-registration pharmacist training in a busy community pharmacy in North Belfast. This position allowed me to develop into a conscientious, empathetic and efficient healthcare professional.• I took ownership of several crucial pharmacy services such as the multiple-dispensing scheme, smoking cessation, travel services and minor ailments scheme - allowing me to alleviate pressure from my co-workers.• I also used my communication skills explain complex information at the lay level to patients and I was heavily involved in patient education and health promotion. • I created and delivered a patient medication safety presentation for members of the North Belfast Women’s group.• I developed standard operating procedures for new schemes in the pharmacy.• I liaised with a multi-disciplinary health-care professional team to resolve clinical issues.