London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Educational/professional background

I graduated with a BSc in Microbiology (specialisation in virology) from the University of Glasgow and I’m a former Saltire Scholar. I have carried out research-based Internships across lab, review and data science-based roles, in one health, virology and epidemiology with teams based at the MRC-Centre for Virus Research, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh and Sistemic Ltd, a pharmaceutical company based in Scotland. I have a keen interest in vector-borne diseases, with expertise in handling tick species (Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, Ixodes ricinus) for research investigating novel vector surveillance methodologies.

Research interests or career goals

I’m interested in the intersection of laboratory and epidemiology-based research across a variety of viral diseases. Including but not limited to vector borne, respiratory and zoonotic modes of transmission. I’d be keen to explore research on vaccine efficacy, sequencing, seroepidemiology of emerging and re-emerging arboviruses, filoviruses and arenaviruses in hopes of elevating disease risk at the source of transmission. After my masters, I intend to pursue a PhD/RA position in infectious disease epidemiology.

Why I chose LSHTM/my programme

I chose LSHTM and my programme, Control of Infectious Diseases due to its multidisciplinary approach, enabling me to explore areas in public health such as health policy or economics while retaining my core interests. With its diverse cohort from various academic and professional backgrounds, it also provides me with an amazing opportunity to connect with a global network of researchers.

Extra information

I can advise on my experiences in the UK as an International student, transitioning from an undergraduate degree to a master’s programme, including elements such as the application process, student visa, managing finances, sourcing accommodations and life in LSHTM and London.