What is your current role, and how long have you been in this position?

Since completing my PhD in 2016, I have been conducting my postdoctoral research in the Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology Laboratory at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. In 2021 I was appointed as a Lecturer in the UWA School of Biomedical Sciences, while continuing my research at the Perkins.

What are the main projects you are working on right now?

I currently lead several diverse research projects within our laboratory. One focuses on screening natural products from native Western Australian species, including sea cucumbers and marine sponges, to identify potential new therapeutics. We are also investigating the role of various GPCRs as therapeutic targets for metabolic disorders. In addition, we will soon be starting work within the ARC Training Centre for Microphysiological System Technology, where we will develop biosensors for use in advanced microphysiological systems.

Are there any achievements or milestones you’re particularly proud of?

I have been honoured to receive several ASCEPT awards, including the BPS/ASCEPT Outstanding Young Investigator Prize (2024), the Bellberry New Investigators Award (2024) and the ASCEPT Early Achievement Award for Women (2021).

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Most of my spare time is spent with my two young children, but I also love nature walks and have started doing swing dance classes! I’m also a total history nerd and love learning everything I can about historical people, places, and cultures.

What is something your colleagues may not know about you?

Before going to university I worked in China as an English teacher. That was twenty years ago now, so my Mandarin skills are very rusty these days!