Brno Metropolitan Area
I obtained a 2:1 MBiochem from St Hugh's College, Oxford University before going on to complete my PhD in molecular virology at the Univeristy of Glasgow. My PhD focused on the members of the Bunyavirus order that are exclusively carried by ticks. I am passionate about the subject of tick-borne viruses, and now work as a ERA postdoctoral research fellow within the Ruzek lab based in Brno, where I focus on all things TBEV related. Outside of university, I was an employee at the Look Out discovery Center from the age of 16 until I began my PhD. This is a science based activity centre that aids in teaching children from the ages of 4-13 the basics of science using the hands-on exhibitions. My original role included hosting birthday parties and presenting science themed shows to a variety of audiences, ensuring the centre is tidy, interacting with the public. I then went on to become a supervisor, which expanded my duties to include tasks such as setting the daily schedule, organising the team of staff, and aiding in unlocking/locking the centre. I have also been involved with a number of public engagement activities, including having given several talks to schools and community groups about both my research and career path, and ticks/tick-borne viruses in a wider context. Additionally, I have taken part in many outreach events, including the Gladsgow science festival (2021), and run a TikTok account (@tick_scientist) dedicated to demonstrating some of the research techniques we use in the lab and the importance of research into tick-borne viruses. I strongly believe that public engagement is a very crucial aspect of scientific research.
Alongside my role in the main exhibition I also work in the cafe at The Look Out, where my roles include manning the till, basic food prep and cleaning the cafe.
Building on the role of Explainer by directing the team, organising the rota, handling various responsibilities and training staff.