Tell us a bit about the work you’ll be doing at CCMAR 

I will be working on the INNATEMEM project and will be looking into whether an innate immune response can be trained in marine bivalves, so as to enhance immunity and increase disease resistance within these biologically and economically important organisms. This will help to improve the knowledge base regarding the mechanisms governing and influencing bivalve innate immunity, which can then be extended to other marine organisms and help to create new sustainable and environmentally friendly strategies for disease management.

What were you doing before you joined us?

I recently completed my Marine Biology Masters degree through IMBRSea and prior to returning to university in my mid-30's and changing career completely, I worked for 8 years as a physiotherapist.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

As a marine biologist, I enjoy any opportunity to get into the ocean and enjoy body-boarding and surfing and walking my two little sausage dogs on the beach. I am a super-foodie and relish trying out new restaurants with my husband, cooking for friends and family and watching MasterChef!