As lead biologist for the Centre for Target Validation, I have established the working practices of the Centre to standardise target assessment and recruited a team of biologists.I lead collaborative research to build robust target validation datasets. These datasets facilitate decision making on target entry to drug discovery, and include data on target validation biology, tractability and strategic position.The aim of the Centre for Target Validation is to prioritise targets for drug discovery and maximise the chance of success for drug discovery projects at the Institute of Cancer Research.

Drug discovery biologyCancer cell biology assay developmentTherapeutic target discovery and evaluationEpigenetics and cell differentiationHaematological malignancies

Module leader of Cell and Molecular Biology of Cancer, MSc Oncology: manage the curriculum; select course content; recruit lecturers; provide mentorship for junior lecturers, respond to student queries; mark students’ essays and complete annual course evaluation to ensure quality.Lecturer in cell signalling, cancer metastasis and apoptosis (Masters level).Associate supervisor for PhD students: co-supervise and mentor PhD students in the Myeloma Targeted Treatment Group; provide instruction and training in laboratory skills, data analysis and project strategy. Senior Postdoctoral Research Scientist: oversee the Myeloma Targeted Treatment Group; manage projects relating to cell biology, biochemistry and molecular sciences; carry out laboratory-based research; analyse complex data and present to technical and non-technical audiences; write scientific papers for publication in world-class journals; manage laboratory finances and apply for research grants.Cell Biology expert in ICR drug discovery team: provide expertise and influence strategy within a multidisciplinary drug discovery team; communicate and work effectively within a matrix management structure.Postdoctoral Representative on the ICR Academic Board: contribute to strategy decisions governing academic courses at ICR; represent the views of postdoctoral researchers at board meetings; report proceedings of meetings to the Postdoctoral Association.Postdoctoral Association Committee member: help organise the ‘Pathway to Independence’ residential course at Cambridge University—a training conference for senior postdoctoral researchers; update the Committee intranet pages.Scientific Staff representative at the Genetic Modification Safety Committee.

Assistant supervisor for a PhD student: co-supervise a student working on host/pathogen interactions; provide expertise, instruction, coaching and training in bioscience.Postdoctoral Associate: manage a research project focussing on the mechanisms of phagocytosis and mechanisms of subversion of this process by pathogens; carry out interdisciplinary research (microbiology, biochemistry and cell biology); give oral presentations of research; write journal articles and publish results; write scientific reviews; work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.Postdoctoral representative for Cell and Molecular Biology: gather points of view from other postdoctoral researchers and represent them at committee meetings.