-Proposal writing for CR&D projects sponsored by innovate UK-Market research for vibrational spectroscopy applications in biologics-Development of knowledge in biologics manufacturing processes through lab demonstrations and discussions with colleagues.

This was a collaborative research project between UCL and The Royal Veterinary College. Articular cartilage degeneration affects a growing poportion of the population and is the most common cause of immobility. Raman spectroscopy offers the potential for the in vivo diagnosis of this disease. During this project we characterised healthy articular cartilage samples to understand the natural variations in tissue composition that are detectable by this technique. This involved the development of a method for obtaining tissue sections and performing Raman mapping. We also carried out heat denaturation studies and hydration dependent studies, using Raman and IR spectroscopies. This project was funded by the EPSRC through the DTC for materials chemistry at UCL.

Project: Developmen of a biosensor for ochratoxin (a food toxin) using antibodies and aptamers.I carried out screening for antibodies using a biotin and streptavidin detection system (ELISA). We then tested methods for introducing an aptamer to the detection system.

Experience of using high throughput analytical techniques to measure active ingredients in pharmaceutical products, tissue, blood plasma and blood samples. Solid-liquid phase and liquid-liquid phase extraction. I was trained to work under GLP and GMP. Techniques used; HPLC-UV, HPLC-MS, LC-MS/MS and UPLC-UV. I also worked in business development department towards the end of my placement.