Ciara Smith

PhD Student | MBiol Biochemistry Graduate

Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

About

First year PhD student using mass spectrometry imaging to visualise drug distribution in tissue, with 2+ years prior industrial experience in analytical development and bioanalysis. Experience across different analytical techniques, specifically including top-down MS, native MS, LC-MS, LC-UV and capillary electrophoresis, gained from experience in both academic and industrial settings. Possesses a strong educational background, with a First Class integrated master’s degree from University of Leeds. Currently seeking opportunities for professional development in academic research and the pharmaceutical industry.

Experience

  • University of Birmingham (Birmingham, England, United Kingdom)
    • Doctoral Researcher
      Oct 2025 - Present · 9 mos

    • Postgraduate Teaching Assistant (PGTA)
      Jan 2026 - Present · 6 mos

  • Validation Chemist at Labcorp
    Feb 2025 - Oct 2025 · 9 mos

  • Scientist (LC-MS) at Fera Science Ltd.
    Sep 2024 - Feb 2025 · 6 mos

  • Integrated Master's Student Researcher at The Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology
    Oct 2023 - May 2024 · 8 mos

    Project: ‘Structural characterisation of cocaine-binding aptamers by global hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry’ Performed independent native MS method development and troubleshooting of dsDNA and aptamer structures using a Synapt G1 (QToF)

  • Analytical Development Scientist at CPI
    Jul 2021 - Sep 2022 · 1 yr 3 mos

    Industrial placement with a focus on developing RP-LC-UV and capillary electrophoresis methods for monitoring mRNA purity and integrity following downstream purification.