My Sci-Comm Journey so far...
2019-2022
BSc Biochemistry - Lancaster University
During my Undergraduate degree, I studied Biochemistry with a focus on genetics, with my dissertation looking at DNA Repair in the intestinal parasite Giardia. While I really enjoyed this course, and graduated with a first-class degree, it was during this time I realised that what I really enjoyed was learning about new research, and communicating that with others. This was when I decided to pursue science communication, and applied to the MSc course at the University of Manchester
2022-2023
MSc Science and Health Communication
- University of Manchester
While I was in Manchester, I was able to learn about science communication from an academic viewpoint, and gain experience in the practical side of the subject. I focused on social justice and equity in science communication, drawing this theme into both the course's mentored project, and my research project, all of which combined to allow me to graduate with a distinction. You can learn more about some of the things I got up to in this period in the project tab.
2023- 2024
Communication and Public Engagement Coordinator
- Planetary Health Informatics Lab, University of Oxford
Following my graduation, I spent a year working with academics at the University of Oxford, communicating research which applies AI to health and climate change issues. I held a varied role, producing graphics and videos, social media and web content, and writing press releases and blog posts for research, as well as doing public and patient involvement and engagement work, including presenting and giving talks about the team's research.
2024 - now
Collaborative Doctoral (PhD) Project
- Northumbria University & Life Science Centre
In October 2024, I moved to Newcastle-upon-Tyune to start my PhD, supervised by academics in digital education & science outreach, and by staff from Life Science Centre. I'm studying making & tinkering in science museums, and looking at the potential broader impact of these activities on students beyond being a fun way to learn about scientific outcomes. I'm only at the beginning of my PhD journey, but loving it so far - read more about my research, activities and side-quests here.
My Background
I grew up moving across the globe, in amazing and culturally rich places like Malaysia and India, which shaped my values and outlook on the world. I think it is this experience, and my identity as part of the LGBTQ+ community, which push me to study and work in making the world, and science education in particular, a more just and equitable place - while also recognising my privilege and positionality.
At school, I always loved science, but I also enjoyed studying English, other languages, and humanities like philosophy. While I loved studying science at university, I knew the lab life wasn't for me, which is what drew me to science communication.
​
I have also especially loved science museums - a part of my heart will forever remain in W5, the science museum in my home in Belfast. I've also always loved working with young people, including volunteering at junior schools and gaining my swimming teacher qualifications. I ended up combining this love, my experience and knowledge of science, and my skills as a researcher and communicator, in my current PhD studies.
Public Engagement
Science, Communication and Education Research
Graphics, Video and
Media Production
Written and Spoken Communication