Profile

I am an environmental microbiologist who is interested in microbial diversity and function. I am particularly interested in how pollutants (e.g. hydrocarbons, nanoparticles) impact ecosystems and their processes such as nutrient cycling. I work, across all types of environments from terrestrial, aquatic through to air systems. I work full-time and have a little boy who is also interested in bacteria (but likes dinosaurs more!)

I came to Essex University in 2006 as a Lecturer and made Senior Lecturer in 2012. I enjoy my research, microorganisms are fascinating and never fail to surprise us with what they can do! I am keenly interested in supporting equality and diversity and inclusivity. I was the Self-Assessment Team (SAT) lead for the School of Life Sciences, University of Essex Athena Swan bronze awards in 2014-2017 and have remained an active member of the SAT team ever since. I joined the ARIES DTP as the Equality and Diversity and Inclusivity lead and have really enjoyed the experience. ARIES is an exciting DTP that covers the whole range of environmental sciences and has a great team of community-minded members that makes ARIES a great DTP to be involved in.