STEM SUSSEX

What is your background in STEM?

My degree is in Applied Biomedical Science which meant that I studied and worked simultaneously. During term time this was two days a week in the pathology laboratory at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. In the vacation I worked full time in the laboratory.

Tell us a bit about your job history

During my degree I was able to work at the hospital, both in term time and in the vacation, which led to me being able to register as a Biomedical Scientist. I moved straight on from finishing my degree to my PhD research.

What do you do at the moment (in broad terms)?

I am involved in the establishment of a UK-wide database to record genetic and environmental causes of asthma in childhood.

What skills do you use in your job?

I am currently doing clinical investigation and am carrying out a lot of questionnaires, communicating with the public. I'm also undertaking training in paediatrics. I’m soon going to be travelling to different laboratories to learn techniques to apply in my laboratory.

How has your perception of STEM changed when moving between education and work?

I have realised that the more I find out, the more I realise I have much more to learn!

What do you do in your spare time?

I’m a fire fighter & a karate instructor. I’m not sure I have much time to sleep anymore!