Iona Walker Email & Phone Number

Edinburgh, Gb

Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland

Postdoctoral researcher at the Finnish Centre of Excellence for Multidisciplinary AMR Research and with the Centre for the Social Study of Microbes

University Of Edinburgh

This thesis explores relationship between the problem of antimicrobial resistance and scientific academic AMR research at a British research-intensive university I call the University of Cityford. I conducted 18 months of ethnographic fieldwork with scientists and researchers studying AMR in the UK between October 2020 and June 2023. Antimicrobial resistance is a so called ‘wicked problem’, meaning it is not one singular challenge, but an indeterminate set of complex, interconnected, multi-scale problems which are not definitely bounded or located. Thus, antimicrobial resistance implicates multiple kinds of bodies, systems, ecologies, and infrastructures – it is a relational problem. In response to antimicrobial resistance, AMR research is a rapidly growing field, aided by the focus of an increase in funding, attention and calls for interdisciplinary collaboration. AMR research is therefore necessarily diverse; spanning multiple disciplines, modes of research, ways of knowing and encompassing diverse research questions. My thesis argues that AMR is not a straightforward, bounded research object, but one which is continually articulated and constructed by AMR researchers. I contribute a novel anthropological analysis of the relationship between antimicrobial resistance as a ‘problem’ out there in the world, and AMR as an object of research. I found that AMR emerges as both an emergent research object which makes and remakes relationships between scientists, between humans and microbes, within research communities and global ecosystems and as a doable articulation for making certain kinds of collaborative, relational academic research possible. At stake in this work are imaginaries of ecosystems, bodies and infection which are situated, hybrid and uncertain and the knowledge making processes, collaborations and practices which shaped and limited by academic institutions and the people that navigate them.

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Anti-microbial resistance (AMR) is an issue which will have huge implications for the global population. Antibiotics are no longer the saviour we wanted them to be, so how can we learn to live in the world without them? Beyond Resistance? Is an interdisciplinary network of artists, anthropologists and scientists interested in investigating AMR and how we can re-frame our relationship to microbes based in Edinburgh.Instead of being at war with the stuff that makes up 90% of what we consider 'our bodies' (i.e 'fighting' infection, 'killing germs' etc) is it possible for us to find a way that doesn't lead to our mutual destruction?The interdisciplinary work the network aims to do is harness the creativity and problem solving ability of anthropologists, artists and scientists and in doing so, go beyond the current thinking in this area.

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Focus on diagnostics, laboratory strengthening and biotech innovation in the US, India and Africa.

North West Uk

As a Senior Community Facilitator I was responsible for delivering and managing a complex curriculum to large groups of young people (aged 16-17) and staff, with the aim of empowering young people to enact their own social action campaign.This was an intense process as we only had four days to compete the program. I was able to thrive in this environment as I have sharp communication skills with a great eye for detail; especially as I was responsible for facilitating multiple projects by young people.A large portion of my work involved motivating staff and students. I would do this by organising fun games for staff members throughout the day, observing when breaks were needed and taking time to talk individually with the team members to understand their needs before problems arose. For the young people, I made sure that I was clear in my instructions, led a variety of workshops to engage different learning styles and ran many energising games throughout the day.

Manchester, United Kingdom

My commitment to social action was recognised by The Challenge when they invited me to be their Brand Ambassador. My role is to inspire my peers to join The Challenge in their mission to help young people reach their potential and improve our society.My role includes delivering presentations alone, or with other members of staff; engaging with people at events such as careers fairs; promoting The Challenge through social media and finally modeling the values that The Challenge stands for: respect, social mixing, challenging ourselves and empathy.

Manchester, United Kingdom

As lead mentor I am responsible for the running of an after school debating club at primary and secondary schools with above average numbers of pupils eligible for free school meals.This requires me to build strong connections with students and staff by being reliable, maintaining excellent communication skills and engaging the children with a variety of fun games and projects. In order to be successful I am creative in my approach to running the club by not being afraid of challenging the pupils in order for them to reach their full potential.

North West Uk

I was responsible for leading the social action campaign curriculum for young people aged 16-18 from a diverse range of backgrounds. This involved supporting and empowering my teams to develop creative social action campaigns that make a real difference in their community."This role is suitable for dynamic, creative and passionate individuals with an interest in young people and social action, and with exceptional communication and facilitation skills." NCS The Challenge website

Master Of Science - Msc, Medical Anthropology

Activities and Societies: • Member of the Edinburgh University Yoga Society • Member of the Edinburgh University Salsa Society • Member.

Bachelor Of Sociology, Social Anthropology

Anthrpology, Medical Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology