Women in Science
Dr Lorraine Work and her team wanted to maximise an opportunity through “International Day of Women and Girls in Science” to showcase the extraordinary women of SCMH, women of past and present, and those who have inspired us.
66 profiles were all displayed outside C222 in the BHF GCRC and a selection was also on display in the Wolfson Link Building. A video of the profiles was created for Twitter and was playing within the GCRC reception on the day.
You Can watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlQZawMiZNA
Dr Lorraine Work reflects on the campaign:
“It had been 2 years since we last did our wall celebrating the women of SCMH, so we thought it was time to recreate this. Also because the last 2 years have been quite extraordinary.
Once again, it was such a positive event to bring together – both gathering the profiles from current and previous colleagues but also hearing everyone discussing what their luxury item might be, it was a great talking point. After initial concern about the number of those who will engage, as many are hybrid working, to end up with 66 profiles and 4 inspiring women nominated by our male colleagues was fantastic.
I thank all those who took the time to contribute. Seeing all those amazing and inspiring women in one place can’t help but make you smile and feel proud to be part of it.”
Jillian Blair - Head of Professional Services
Biography/Where am I now?
Working in SCMH, managing a large team. Happy and healthy, what more can you ask from life!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Graduating with an MBA aged 34 after studying part time whilst working.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book – The Sacred Art of Stealing – Christopher Brookmyre
Luxury Item – Vivienne Westwood ballgown
Songs - Pretty in Pink – Psychedelic furs & This must be the place – Talking Heads
Josie Fullerton - Postdoctoral Research Associate
Biography/Where am I now
In ICAMS, I’m a post doc in Dr Lorraine Work’s group. We’re investigating extracellular vesicles & microRNAs in the setting of stroke.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Obtaining my thesis! (That £4 discount on car insurance… totally worth it.)
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book – “How to survive on a desert island”, Luxury item – A caravan. Songs – “Greyhound” Swedish House Mafia & “Don’t Stop” Rolling Stones
Lorraine Work - Reader and PI of a research team studying stroke
Biography/Where am I now
BSc (Hons) Immunol & Pharmacol and PhD in Cardiovascular Pharmacol from University of Strathclyde. Brief period at UW in Seattle, then I spent 7 years as PDRA in Prof Andy Baker’s group here before securing a BHF Intermediate Fellowship (2007), then a lectureship and promoted internally to where I am now.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Greatest achievement is a collaborative project to create 2 amazing bright young humans. Winning one of the “research culture” awards from UoG in 2021 was among my proudest (and humbling) professional moments.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I’m not much of a reader so the Guinness Book of Records as its full of random info. A guitar as I’ve always wanted to learn & might have time to do so. 2 songs is really tough (who set these Qs!) – “Country Roads” by John Denver & “Diamonds in the Mud” by Gerry Cinnamon
Estrella Lopez Gordo - PHD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
After my PhD (optimizing adenoviral vectors for cardiac gene therapy), I moved to Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (New York city) to develop AAV vectors with novel targeting properties for heart conditions. Currently, I am continuing this work at Capsida Biotherapeutics in Los Angeles focusing on the brain as the main therapeutic target.
Greatest Achievent/Proudest Moment
Presenting my work at the BSGCT/ASGCT conferences.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Becoming supernatural by Dr. Joe Dispenza, luxury tea, and would just listen to the nature sounds.
Anna Kamdar - Medical student intercalating in Cardiovascular Sciences MMedSci
Biography/Where am I now
Prior to joining the institute I undertook a BSc(Hons) degree at Newcastle University, after which I became interested in Cardiology with the CISCO-19 study team. I am currently undertaking a Masters degree mentored by Professor Colin Berry.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Teaching one of my dogs to fetch after 6 years (he’s still not very good at it!)
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman, Suncream (SPF50), Live and Learn by The Cardigans and Remedy by Little Boots
Harriet Lomholt-Welch - Involved with CISCO-19 and CISCO-21 trials
Biography/Where am I now
I am a University of Glasgow medical student who has been helping out with the CISCO trials in my spare time over the past year. I’m currently rotating through different specialities in a range of hospitals as part of my final year of medical school – particularly enjoying cardiology, A&E, and psychiatry.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I won my friends’ ”Come Dine With Me” during the pandemic.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
“Lord of the Flies” for some inspiration on how NOT to do it, my SPF50, and anything by Frank Ocean.
Eilidh MacDonald - Research Associate
Biography/Where am I now
I finished my PhD in Canada in 2020 and now I work in Chris Loughrey’s research group studying adverse cardiac remodelling in vivo and in isolated heart, tissue, and cellular preparations.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Greatest achievement pending. Always a proud moment when I eat more than one meal/day. Also proud I narrowed it down to 2 songs below – wasn’t easy.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: The Edible Woman – Margaret Atwood, Luxury item: A set of bagpipes, Songs: Love Me or Leave Me – Nina Simone; Superstition – Stevie Wonder
Tuuli Hietamies - Ex- PhD student
Biography/Where am I now
After graduating from ICAMS (under primary supervision of the one and only Lorraine Work) in 2020 I pursued a postdoc at Stanford University in California. I currently study the mechanisms of action and clinical applications of psychedelic compounds.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I ran a half marathon last year in 1h 39 minutes, it was hard!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Frank Herbert - Dune, sun cream (the good SPF50 kind), Bill Withers – Lovely Day and Khruangbin - Time
Liz Coyle - Trial Administrator/PA to Professor of Metabolic Medicine
Biography/Where am I now
Happy working in ICAMS with lovely colleagues for over 5 years, having expected to be here for only 6 weeks as a temp!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
My son
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Little Women; Wine; (2 songs is not enough!) “All The Way” Frank Sinatra, “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” Creedence Clearwater Revival
Raquel Garcia - Research Associate at GCRC (2012-2015)
Biography/Where am I now
I am working as a Research Fellow at the Pharmacology Department of University of Cantabria (Spain). My research interests are focused in cardiovascular remodelling
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
To get financial support from Bayer company to keep my research going!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
A photo book of my baby boy, a pillow, Ludovico Einaudi - Una Mattina and Depeche Mode - "Enjoy The Silence"
Ashley Miller - Leadership Fellow 2012-2015 and BHF Intermediate Fellow 2008-2013
Biography/Where am I now
Medical Advisor for CV portfolio at Sanofi
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Seeing my kids grow up into lovely(ish) young people
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I’d bring my atlas (love a map!) and my luxury item would be chocolate. I love George Michael (RIP L) so would bring “Don’t let the sun go down on me” and like to sing along to Gerry Cinnamon “Belter”.
Eleni Charla - PhD Student-EV enthusiast
Biography/Where am I now?
I received my BCs in Pharmacy in 2015, MSc in Biotechnology in 2017. Then I joined the BHF programme in 2017 and right now I am at
final stage of my PhD.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I followed the career I was dreaming since I was a kid! My mum thought I was talking nonsense that I will be a scientist one day but I proved her wrong!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
One Hundred Years of Solitude (Gabriel García Márquez), sunscreen, The Police - Every breath you take, Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Mónica Flores Muñoz - PhD student/Research Assistant
Biography/Where am I now
I am a Mexican MD that found her true calling in cardiovascular research. Did my PhD and Podtdoc in ICAMS and after 8 wonderful years in Scotland, came back to Mexico to work as PI in the University of Veracruz.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Greatest achievement has to be building a research lab from scratch in Mexico. Research in non-developed countries is HARD!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: 100 years of solitude or El Quijote or The Unbearable Lightness of Being….awwww… can´t decide! Luxury item: soap Songs: not sure but something upbeat and danceable
Antoniya Pashova - PhD Candidate
Biography/Where am I now
I completed my bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences at Kingston University, London (2016). After spending a year in industry, I decided to continue my education by doing a MSc in Cardiovascular Sciences at the University of Glasgow. I’m now a final year BHF-funded PhD student investigating the role of extracellular vesicles in acute vascular injury.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
When I first arrived in the UK (2016) for my undergraduate studies I struggled a lot as a non-native English speaker. I was motivated to overcome the language barrier and through a lot of hard work and persistence I completed my studies and was awarded the IBMS President's Prize and the School Prize recognising the best performing student on the Life Science programme.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
‘The time traveller’s wife’; Perfume; Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud & Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta - You're The One That I Want.
Yvonne Alexander - Began as post-doctoral scientist and later a lecturer leading the gene therapy lab and supervising PhD students, establishing myself as a respected mvascular biologist, before moving to the University of Manchester.
Biography/Where am I now
Emerita Professor at Manchester Metropolitan University, continuing in a scientific advisory role and mentor. Also enjoying sharing the lives of our 3 children, their respective wives, husband and our seven grandchildren.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Being appointed Professor and Head of the Cardiovascular Research Group in Manchester Metropolitan University to nurture vascular biology interests. Being elected as the first female Chair of The British Society for Cardiovascular Research (BSCR) since its inception 40 years previously and subsequently being elected as The President of the European Vascular Biology Organisation.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Les Miserables, (Victor Hugo): A family photo collection book called “Getting Together in 2021” Albatross (Fleetwood Mac): Girls just want to have fun (Cyndi Lauper )
Jennifer Lees - Clinical Lecturer in Renal Medicine/Honorary ST7 Nephrology
Biography/Where am I now
I did my PhD in ICAMS 2016-2019 and now a NES/CSO funded Clinical Lecturer in Renal Medicine studying the long-term cancer and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with kidney disease. In my final year of clinical training and developing funding applications for next steps.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Made a joke about the homunculus on Twitter and Janey Godley liked it
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book of piano sheet music; a Steinway grand piano (seeking suitable funding body); Kylie – Get Outta My Way; Frou Frou – Let Go
Alex Riddell - Post-doc in the Miller Lab
Biography/Where am I now?
I originally trained as a vet at Cambridge Veterinary School. By the time I completed my studies , I had developed a love for research and moved to Glasgow to complete my PhD in Cardiovascular Science. I haven’t looked back and now work as a researcher in the stroke field.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Submitting my PhD thesis
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book = The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell. Songs = What’s Up - 4 Non Blondes, I’m Only Happy When It Rains – Garbage. Can I bring my kindle?
Angela Lucas-Herald - Clinical Lecturer in Child Health andSpecialist Trainee in Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes (Grid ST6)
Biography/Where am I now?
I completed my PhD in Cardiovascular Sciences in 2020, having been based in the BHF Centre of Research Excellence and learning so much from colleagues in ICAMS, including a love of laboratory based science. I am now an NES/CSO funded Clinical Lecturer in Child Health studying the vascular effects of conditions associated with hypogonadism in children.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
My 2 PhD babies
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
‘Life After Life-Kate Atkinson’; my bed; ‘Try Everything’-Shakira; ‘These Are the Days of Our Lives’-Queen
Rebecca Gilchrist -Second year PhD student
Biography/Where am I now?
Having completed an undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences, I began studying at the University of Glasgow in 2019 as part of the BHF 4-year PhD programme. I am researching heterogeneity in ventricular electrophysiology in relation to mechanisms of ventricular arrhythmia.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Completing the 2021 Loch Ness marathon
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
The Thursday Murder Club, coffee, Hypersonic Missiles (Sam Fender) & Caution (The Killers)
Laura Gonzalez Trueba -1st year BHF PhD student
Biography/Where am I now?
I am currently trying to develop a gene therapy for collagen IV related vascular disease. Mutations in collagen IV cause haemorrhagic stroke as part of COL4A1 syndrome and are present in 3% of haemorrhagic stroke patients in the general population.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I can’t think of a single proud moment, but I am proud of where I am in my life at the minute. I am proud of the people I am surrounded by and the wonderful work they do everyday.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
“Wide Sargasso Sea” by Jean Rhys; mattress; “Boogie Wonderland” by Earth, Wind & Fire and ”Plage” by Crystal Fighters.
Janice Richardson - Project Manager
Biography/Where am I now?
RGN BSc MPC Currently enrolled at UHI & Napier University for CPD modules. 2021 Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland (QNIS) Community Award for Long Service.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Nursing both of my parents through palliative care.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: The Album Cover Art of Soundtracks, Luxury item: Pickled walnuts! 2 songs: “The Crunch” by The Nightingales & “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head” by Burt Bacharach & Hal David
Del Graham - Senior Research Scientist/Postgraduate Convener
Biography/Where am I now?
Born & raised in North Wales. Married with two grown-up children. BSc (Hons) degree from University of Central Lancashire
PhD from University of Glasgow.
Greatest achievement/proudest moments
At work: witnessing the graduation of my PhD students. At home: successfully juggling family, career and a horse
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: all 6 books of the Lymond Saga by Dorothy Dunnett (I'm not greedy!) Luxury item: my horse (Emir) 2 songs: Comfortably Numb (Pink Floyd), Song to the Siren (This Mortal Coil).
Katie Harvey - BBSRC PhD student 2012-2016 (Rhian Touyz) - Post-Doctoral Associate 2016-2018 (Mandy MacLean)
Biography/Where am I now?
Statistician at Department of Health, Northern Ireland
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I am proud to have worked with many brilliant scientists on a number of exciting projects and the 10 papers that I worked on across the 5 years I spent in ICAMS. In terms of one single achievement - perhaps being an invited speaker at the Gordon Conference on Angiotensin in 2016 (Lucca, Italy).
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Family photo album, hot water bottle, Hey Jude – The Beatles & Folding Stars – Biffy Clyro
Ghadeer Joudah - PhD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
I am a clinical pharmacist from Saudi Arabia. I am doing my PhD in cardiovascular pharmacology. Particularly, I am looking at the mechanisms underlying dysfunctional endothelial insulin action.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
That I graduated with a first honour and an excellent GPA from Pharmacy school.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
On a desert island, I would take my sketchbook to sketch my thoughts and ideas, because sketchbook can document our lives like a diary, and they can also be a very faithful companions! Regarding music and luxury item, I would bring my coffee machine and listen to relaxing music with gentle ocean sounds and soothing waves.
Gabriela Gerganova -2nd Year PhD student, ICAMS PGRs Representative
Biography/Where am I now?
I research the inflammatory mechanisms after ischaemic stroke.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Being awarded the J.J. Lewis Memorial Prize in 2018.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
‘Chronicle of a Death Foretold’ by Gabriel García Márquez, my luxury item would be my cat, and my songs choice is ‘Heaven is a Place on Earth’ by Berlinda Carlisle and ‘People, Let’s Dance’ by Public Service Broadcasting.
Elisabeth Beattie - Research Associate until Jan 2020
Biography/Where am I now?
BSc (Hons) Zoology, MSc Medical Science University of Glasgow. From Technician to Higher Scientific Officer in 14 years at MRC Blood
Pressure Unit, Glasgow. Next 26 years - Research Assistant, Cardiovascular Research Institute in Heart Failure, then Dept of Medicine and Therapeutics and then BHF GCRC, all University of Glasgow. Now retired and enjoying looking after my 18 month old granddaughter Rosemary along with gardening, knitting and new hobby, painting.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
First paper published 1983 in Clinical Science, one of only 2 authors!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Complete Works of Charles Dickens. Set of watercolours, brushes and supply of paper. The Man Who Sold the World by Lulu, All the Young Dudes by Mott The Hoople
Laura Downie - PhD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
Completed PhD in Nicklin/Work groups then went on to Public Health Scotland where I’m a Senior Statistician doing all the covid analysis/charts you see on the news! I’m also a lead trainer in R and SQL programming.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Being ICAMS longest term PhD student (might be beat now due to covid!)
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: One Thousand and One Nights. Luxury item: I think a Rottweiler counts as luxury. Songs: Everywhere (Fleetwood Mac), Stayin’ Alive (Bee Gees)
Hannah Martin - Former PhD student
Biography/Where am I now?
After my PhD I did two post-docs in Madison, Wisconsin. After that, I came back to the UK and now I work as a journal specialist for Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Probably having the guts to move across the world by myself! I did bring my cat, though.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I’d bring The Secret History by Donna Tartt, as it’s my favourite book. My luxury item would be a REALLY comfy bed, and the two songs I’d choose are When Doves Cry by Prince and The Killing Moon by Echo and the Bunnymen
Karen Trofimova - Project Officer, BHF Centre of Research Excellence 2013 - 2021
Biography/Where am I now?
After 8 years, I left ICAMS in Nov 2021 and joined Inspera AS, a Norwegian EdTech company, as Project Manager. Inspera’s product is an end-to-end digital assessment platform with customers such as Universities.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Competing in a professional Muay Thai fight and winning!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I’d bring Life of Pi, chocolate and RHCP - Californication, Bella Ciao
Alyson Miller - Senior Lecturer
Biography/Where am I now?
I took up this position in 2017 after working in Australia for 15 years. I currently lead a research group which aims to understand the complex mechanisms that regulate brain blood flow during health and disease. The best part of my job is mentoring the next generation of scientists
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Winning the Commonwealth & British Highland dancing champs, and coming 4th in the Worlds. Dancing also took me to many interesting places in the world (Africa, Canada, Australia)
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Any book by Peter Hoeg; my new record player; Gorecki (Lamb) & Feeling Good (Nina Simone)
Paola Caruso - PhD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
I am currently a British Heart Foundation Career re-entry fellow at the University of Cambridge and I lead a research group within the laboratory of Professor Nick Morrell
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Securing my Fellowship while on maternity leave taking care of a new-born baby.. If I am honest I am still not entirely sure how I did it!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
My book has to be “City”, by Alessandro Baricco, for the songs, very difficult to pick two, “Wake me up”, Avicii and “Respect”, Aretha Franklin, and I will have to sneak in my son as luxury item
Hannah Morgan - Former PhD Student (2014-2018)
Biography/Where am I now?
Post-doctoral Research Fellow at University of Nottingham
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Just getting through the past 2 pandemic-filled years and still being a functional human being. Academically, I’m pretty proud of being an invited speaker at an international conference, granted it was because my boss suggested me but, still it’s an achievement!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook, a boat, song #1 ‘Fire and the Flood’ –Vance Joy and song # 2 We Didn’t Start the Fire –Billy Joel (not deliberate that they are both about fire!)
Lynsey Howard - PhD Student 2008 - 2012
Biography/Where am I now?
After moving to University of Bristol for a post-doc position, I made the transition to Industry in 2014 and joined a small company in Scotland as Lead Scientist, and then Head of Preclinical Development. In 2020, I moved to EnteroBiotix, as Head of Research.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Being lucky enough to turn my hobby into my career, and seeing team members I’ve mentored progress into leaders.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: SAS Survival Handbook: The Definitive Survival Guide(!), Luxury Item: Cadbury’s Dark Milk Chocolate Buttons
Songs: Gimme Shelter by the Rolling Stones and When Doves Cry by Prince
Lesley Graham - Lecturer and programme lead (MSc Precision Medicine with specialisms)
Biography
Research interests: Renal ion transport systems in essential HTN. PhD – 4 year BHF (UoG), Post doc – UoG and NYC medical college.
Pre-PhD, NHS research technician, University of Dundee.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Not my proudest ‘work’ moment but definitely an achievement. I had attended the ESH international conference whilst still on maternity leave with my first son. Feeling a bit disconnected from work at that point I was lacking confidence and worried about attending. In the end I managed to win 2 prizes, one for best young investigator and one for best poster #monthemammies
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book - Where the crawdads sing. Luxury item – always mascara, my grannie always says wear your mascara and do your squats (she is 81 and still a babe)! Songs – I love music so I’d cheat and take a mix tape
Erin Dawn Higgins - Final year PhD. student
Biography/Where am I now?
Since beginning my undergraduate in 2013, I have spent my academic years at the University of Glasgow, the last 5 of which have been within ICAMS. I will soon be seeking pastures new!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Passing my MOD2 motorbike test.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
A wildlife encyclopedia and Skyr (!). Songs would be Meatloaf – Paradise by the Dashboard Lights (for mood) and Queen, David Bowie – Under Pressure (for morale).
Noha Alshuwayer - I am a PhD student in the Leiper Group
Biography/Where am I now?
I’m a medical doctor and switched to academia when I joined the Medical School faculty in King Saud University, KSA.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
As a proud wife & mom, to choose one proudest moment is pretty tricky! On a career-relevant level, embarking on the challenging adventure of a medical science PhD in the UK with three kids would be the one!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
To a desert island, I would bring a survival guide book, The Rain Must Fall (Yanni), Nothing Else Matters (Metallica) and my luxury item would be a Jet Plane to fly in all my family and friends.
Rebecca Rooney - 4-Year BHF PhD student
Biography/Where am I now?
BSc (Hons) Immunology, University of Aberdeen 2017. MSc SMPI, University of Glasgow 2018. MRes Translational Medicine, University of Glasgow 2019. Currently in my final year of my PhD.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I’m very proud of my qualifications and for completing the majority of my PhD during the most unprecedented times in recent history.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
War Doctor: Surgery on the Front Line by David Nott. Heated blanket for the cold nights. Only need one- Drunk in the Morning by Lukas Graham.
Cara Trivett - BHF PhD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
I am in my second year of my PhD, my third in the institute, on the 4-year BHF studentship programme. I work with Drs Martin McBride and Del Graham, continuing their investigation on the effects of the osteopontin gene (SPP1) in heart disease. Outside of the lab, you’ll probably find me somewhere in the West of Scotland, running, cycling or walking!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Being the first in my family to graduate from university
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: Breakfast At Tiffany’s, Luxury item: English Breakfast tea, Songs: Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay (Otis Redding) and Banana Pancakes (Jack Johnson)
Clare Coombs - PhD student and post-doctoral research assistant.
Biography/Where am I now?
I moved from Glasgow to the sunny south in 2018 and now live in Cambridge. I now work as a Regulatory Affairs manager for a pharmaceutical company where I manage the regulatory aspects of a CAR-T therapy for haematological malignancies.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Finally passing my driving test…on the 8th attempt!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Harry Potter (preferably them all!), a coffee machine, Sean Paul- Temperature, John Legend - Wild
Kate Stevens - Honorary Clinical Lecturer and Consultant Nephrologist
Biography/Where am I now?
I did my PhD followed by a Clinical Lectureship in ICAMS 2009-2016. I am a full time NHS Consultant & involved with The European Renal Association; on the council, managing Social Media & on the immunology working group. I am also currently exploring physical activity using mixed methods research.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Qualifying as a Body Attack instructor – so much harder than medical school.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
The Tudors by Peter Ackroyd; coffee machine with endless coffee; Sweet but Psycho – Ava Max (it reminds me of my dog, Wilma) Dangerous; The Romance version (it is my favourite attack interval track & will give me something to do).
Emily Ord - Post-Doctoral Research Associate within Dr. Lorraine Work’s team
Biography/Where am I now?
I am a Medical Advisor with Eisai working across the Neurology and Oncology Business groups
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Nature Paper! *MIC DROP*
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book - any book on how to survive on a desert island,otherwise I wouldn’t have a hope. Luxury - Colin my Golden Retriever for comfort, safety and a great blanket. Songs - “Yes Sir, I Can Boogie” to remind me of Scotland and “Club Tropicana” as it’s a desert island disco must.
Laura Dowsett - Research Associate
Biography/Where am I now?
I’m busy working on my BHF project investigating how the Calcium-sensing receptor effects blood vessel function. At the moment we’re focusing on teasing out the differences we’re seeing between male and female mice.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Spending a month with a community health outreach team in the middle of nowhere in Madagascar.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I think a really big book would be necessary so the ‘Complete History of the World’ please. A swiss army knife. Carole Kings ‘Tapestry’ and ‘Blessed be your name’ by Matt Redman.
Josie van Kralingen - PhD with Lorraine Work and then post-doc with Eleanor Davies
Biography/Where am I now?
On a wee career break looking after my babies at home and loving it… most days!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Giving my first talk at an international conference, something I could never have imagined doing when I started my PhD.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I love reading and don’t get enough time for it these days so anything nice, long and escapist that I could get my teeth into and a family photo album as my luxury item and I’d be happy.
Liz Scott - PhD Student (2011-2015)
Biography/Where am I now?
After finishing my PhD in stem cell biology in ICAMS I went on to do a post doc at the University of Nottingham. I then made the move into industry, where I developed skills in automation and liquid handling programming, and now work as a Senior Automation Scientist at bit.bio in Cambridge.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Completing my PhD still has to be up there!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Sarah Pascoe – Animal, a pair or running shoes, and a couple of upbeat songs to distract me from being stranded on a desert island – maybe Sam Fender – Hypersonic Missiles and Kano - T-shirt Weather in the Manor.
Alisha Aman - PhD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
RA in ICAMS for 3 years and now transitioned into a PhD
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Got a scholarship to immigrate to the UK and do my masters at UofG!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: ‘Phantoms in the Brain’. Luxury item: a big sack of coffee beans + my AeroPress. Songs: ‘Fix you’, ‘Under Pressure’
Elka (Ellie) Kyurkchieva - PhD Student, Prof George S. Baillie Lab
Biography/Where am I now?
I am in the second year of my PhD project, which is focused on investigating PROTAC molecules as potential therapies in various diseases, including cancer. I am enjoying the PhD student experience as it is a unique opportunity to work on something I am passionate about while developing a myriad of professional skills.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
I am proud of the hard work I put in daily in order to advance my knowledge and skillset.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I’d bring John Steinbeck’s ‘East of Eden’ and a hairdryer. The two songs would be Masego & FKJ – ‘Tadow’ and Daft Punk’s ‘Beyond’.
Lara Peden - PhD student
Biography/Where am I now?
I completed my BSc in Genetics and MSc in Cardiovascular Sciences at the University of Glasgow. I am now in the first year of my PhD studying the use of miRNA loaded extracellular vesicles to target the mineralocorticoid receptor in models of stroke and vascular dementia!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Getting the chance to run science outreach events with ScienceGrrl and attend events at Dundee Women’s Festival, Glasgow Science Centre and my old high school!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, a dressing gown, September by Earth Wind & Fire and Dog Days are Over by Florence + the Machine.
Manshi Zhou - PhD Student
Biography/Where am I now?
Currently a first-year PhD student working with Dr. Martin McBride and Dr. Delyth Graham. I am in Glasgow, Scotland.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Completed a 50-page senior research thesis.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Pride and Prejudice; medicine (yes, it is luxury item); Riverside and The Curse
Jennifer Logue - Reader in Metabolic Medicine
Where am I now?
Professor of Metabolic Medicine and Associate Dean for Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University Deputy Clinical Director, NIHR Clinical Research Network, North West Coast
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Throughout my career, my favourite thing has been helping others succeed and grow. I like to think I did this in Glasgow and I am delighted that helping researchers develop and thrive is the main aim of my current roles.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
My Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser for the cooler evenings, Everybody by Back Street Boys and Everybody Get Up by Five for dancing on the beach, and 101 Coconut based cocktails (I’m not a big reader).
Rachel Myles - Clinical Senior Lecturer & Honorary Consultant Cardiologist
Biography/Where am I now?
I trained in Oxford and King’s College London before coming home to Scotland. I did a PhD in ICAMS, leading to a Wellcome Trust Fellowship and my current post.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
My two children undoubtedly constitute the first and have produced several of the second (but they aren’t coming to the desert island, it’ll be my first chance to read a book in years)
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
The Poisonwood Bible, a kettle, Warmer Climate, Diamonds and Rust
Emma Dunning - Technician in the Metabolic Medicine Biomarkers Lab
Biography/Where am I now?
I did my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences, worked as a biomedical scientist for a placement year at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in
Cambridge and now I’m a technician in the MMBL lab doing biomarker analysis for clinical research studies.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Walking the West Highland Way, carrying all my gear and wild camping the whole way
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: Pride and Prejudice, Luxury item: My dog, Susan (useless in this scenario, but cute)
Songs: This Must Be The Place by Talking Heads and Ashes to Ashes by David Bowie
Eleanor Davies - Professor of Molecular Endocrinology
Biography/Where am I now
I studied at the Universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh and carried out my post-docs in Newcastle and Paris. I lead a research group studying the role of the hormone aldosterone in cardiovascular disease. I direct our BHF PhD programme and our of MSC CVS programme and I am one of the Glasgow PIs on the EU-MSCA MINDSHIFT PhD Programme. I am also chair of the Scottish Gov’t CSO Translational Clinical Studies Research Committee.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
My daughter Sophie.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
A piano and a “ learn to play the piano book”. I want to be able to do the introduction to Bohemian Rhapsody by the time I leave the island!
“She” by Elvis Costello. (Very appropriate for the day we are celebrating-read the lyrics!)
“Bring me sunshine” by Morecambe and Wise. (A family favourite that makes me smile and reminds me of my happy childhood)
Nicola Britton - Chief Technician
Biography/Where am I now?
Started working in the Institute in 2001 as a grade 4 technician……despite my moans I enjoy my job and have a great work family. Consider myself pretty lucky.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
???? Not a clue
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
A autobiography on JFK: You Got the Love by The Source, Save a Prayer by Duran Duran and a fully charged satellite phone….yes I’m cheating.
Jaclyn Carberry - Clinical Research Fellow
Biography/Where am I now?
I graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2017 with my medical degree and went on to train in different hospitals around Glasgow. Now, I am taking time out of training to complete a PhD in the effect of empagliflozin on left ventricular remodelling after a heart attack.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Getting into a PhD programme!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
1984, my sofa, Hold On by Wilson Phillips and anything by Lady Gaga
Laura Mooney - PhD student
Biography/Where am I now?
Following my PhD, I moved to Northern Ireland and now work for a Clinical. Diagnostics company. My work focuses on the promotion of preventive health and identification of novel biomarkers of disease.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
The past two years have been incredibly challenging and I am proud to have been part of a huge team working to deliver COVID-19 testing throughout the UK.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
So difficult to pick! But, my book would have to be Lord of the Rings, my luxury item a photo album filled with happy memories and my two songs would be Drive by Incubus and Crazy in Love by Beyonce.
Margaret Cunningham - Modern apprentice laboratory technician (1999-2004)
Biography/Where am I now?
Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology, University of Strathclyde
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Being promoted to Senior Lecturer after my Chancellor’s Fellowship and being elected as a British Pharmacological Society Fellow at the same time.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Dummies Guide ‘How to survive on a desert island’, sunblock for my Scottish peeley wally skin, Songs – Encanco ‘We don’t talk about Bruno’ and Dougie Maclean ‘Caledonia’
Nicole Kane-Nicol - Postdoctoral Researcher
Biography/Where am I now?
UK Medical Head, Solid Tumours Oncology (Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd)
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Personally, my son. Professionally, ensuring access for UK patients to new oncology therapies.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: The 100 Year Old Man who climbed out of the window and disappeared (Jonas Jonasson)
Songs: Lithium (Nirvana), Dream a Little Dream of Me (Mama Cass)
Luxury Item: Nice Moisturiser (sucker for a miracle cream!)
Aisling McFall - PhD student in the Work & Nicklin labs
Biography/Where am I now?
As I wrote up my thesis in January 2020 I started working in the Walden lab in MCSB (UoG) as a lab manager and research assistant trying to understand the structure and function of parkin in Parkinson’s disease. Then in May 2021 I started working as a post-doc in the Tobin lab where my research focusses on targeting and understanding the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in neurodegenerative disease in particular Alzheimer’s disease.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Feeding my baby girl – sometimes “the most natural thing in the world” doesn’t come so naturally!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Wordle has taught me I do not know words…so a dictionary? Sun cream for my Irish skin. And rather than 2 songs could I have two audiobooks of Stephen Fry reading me something please?
Anne Dorrance - PhD student in the Blood Pressure Unit from 1993-1997
Biography/Where am I now?
I am a professor in Pharmacology and Toxicology at Michigan State University. My lab studies the cerebral vasculature and vascular cognitive impairment with dementia.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Two moments come to mind. The first was obtaining my second NIH grant. That was a battle that took years to win. The second was securing an NIH training grant for my department, I am proud to be able to support the training of the next generation of Pharmacologists.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese, Chapstick, The Indiana Jones Theme Song, Highland Cathedral (reminds me of home)
Yvonne Dempsie - Post-Doc
Biography/Where am I now?
I am a lecturer in Pharmacology at GCU
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
My greatest achievements are my kids. I would like to say I have also achieved a good work/life balance but this is most definitely still a work in progress.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Not really a luxury item but I would definitely want to take my running shoes. I would read ‘Gone with the wind’. Great book and long enough to last a while. Too hard to narrow music down to 2 songs – anything that gets my toes tapping!
Lisa McArthur - PhD student and Post-Doc
Biography/Where am I now?
My PhD research focussed on investigating the interactions between cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts for implications in heart disease. I then investigated the mechanisms of the cardioprotective peptide, angiotensin-(1-9), in myocardial infarction during my Post-Doc. I am now working as a Senior Scientist at SB Drug Discovery in Glasgow.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Handing in and defending my PhD thesis
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
I’m not much of reader but I loved “A Thousand Splendid Suns”. Luxury item would be a bottle of pink gin and my 2 songs would be Mr Brightside (The Killers) and Drops of Jupiter (Train)
Rhian Touyz - Visiting Professor; Past Director of ICAMS (2011-2021)
Biography/Where am I now?
I am the Executive Director and Chief Scientific Officer of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre and Dr Phil Gold Chair of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal. I am a clinician-scientist and am passionate about clinically impactful discovery science that promotes healthy lives and best clinical care for all.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Professionally I am most proud to be in a leadership position that facilitates opportunities for researchers to achieve their career ambitions. Personally, nothing beats the pride that I have for my family.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
My desert island basket would include the book ‘Sapiens’ by Yuval Harari, a luxurious leather-bound journal and the songs ‘Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen and ‘No woman no cry’ by Bob Marley.
Rosie Brown - PhD Student and Biostatistician
Biography/Where am I now?
I left ICAMS in August 2021, and now work in transplantation and transfusion clinical trials as a statistician for NHS Blood and Transplant.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Completing my PhD in a pandemic, closely followed by making 144 Disney themed wedding cupcakes.
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
The Book Thief (Markus Zusak); My giant fluffy dressing gown; When I Grow Up (Matilda Musical) and Surprise Yourself (Jack Garratt)
Iona Donnelly - Research Associate
Biography/Where am I now?
Managing clinical operations at Causeway Therapeutics (developing oligonucleotide therapies)
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Watching my daughter thrive and enjoy life after her Fontan completion
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. Luxury item: Wonderfully comfy bed! 2 songs: Inspector Norse by Todd Terje and Arrival of the Birds by The Cinematic Orchestra
Wendy Beattie - Core technician
Biography/Where am I now?
I’m currently working between a few groups, and love the fact that I’m still learning new lots of new skills, as well as training and helping others
Greatest achievement/proudest moment
Getting my MSc (a big thing for someone so adverse to academic writing!)/ seeing my children turn into sassy, funny, confident people, who are ready to conquer anything!
What book, luxury item & 2 songs would you bring to a desert island?
Book: The five people you meet in heaven (Mitch Albom)
Luxury Item: A really good pair of havaianas or a hammock
Songs: ‘Superstylin’ (Groove Armada) and ‘Empress’ or ‘Lifening’ (Snow Patrol)