The Cancer Genetics Laboratory focuses on the identification of genes involved in the predisposition, initiation and progression of breast and ovarian cancer. As the sole RA in the group, I am responsible for training new staff and students, day-to-day lab supervision of undergrads, general lab management and organisation, ordering of reagents, consumables and services, all OHS. I work on several research projects, both collaboratively and independently.Major laboratory projects include: - Population-based genetic testing for high-risk breast and ovarian cancer predisposition genes - Resolution of the missing heritability of breast and ovarian cancer - Genomic characterisation of rare ovarian epithelial carcinoma subtypes

Research Assistant in the Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, studying the genetics of Friedreich Ataxia, a degenerative neuro-muscular disorder. Attempted to create a humanised mouse model, which involved cloning a patient-derived GAA trinucleotide repeat (x680 repeats) into a plasmid without it contracting, followed by homologous recombination into a BAC containing the human FXN gene and promoter region. Other projects involved studies of DNA methylation, FXN gene expression and their association with clinical outcome. Responsible for mouse colony genotyping, general lab management, ordering consumables and OHS.

Research Assistant in the Department of Zoology (School of Life Sciences), studying host:pathogen interactions (bacterial and viral) in Drosophila melanogaster and local Australian spiders. Main techniques: Drosophila rearing & maintenance, DNA & RNA extraction, PCR & qPCR, microarray analysis, phylogenetic analysis.