I have over 30 years’ experience of research into different aspects of plant and fungal chemistry with an emphasis on the economic value of natural products, including quality control of medicinal plants. My research draws on a long-standing interest in plant-animal interactions and the chemistry and economic uses of plants. I have co-authored patent for compounds in the area of malaria, cancer, pest control, cosmetics and have been involved in getting food, medicinal and cosmetic products to market. My current research has a focus on the potential of plants/fungi as pharmaceutical leads for antibiotics, as well as over the counter products such as cosmetics. This involves studying the chemistry of plants and fungi, the biological activities of extracts and isolated compounds, and using DNA based phylogenies to assist guide the selection of species.