After completing my BSc and PhD at the University of Glasgow, I joined GSK as a medicinal chemist.
In my early career, I took on roles of increasing responsibility which resulted in being appointed leader of a medicinal chemistry programme designed to identify a novel treatment for cardiovascular diseases. In 2004, I was appointed Chemistry Operations Manager and in 2013, was promoted to Director of Medicinal Chemistry Recruitment & Talent Development. This role involves the recruitment of chemists at all levels, from apprenticeship positions to senior leader positions.
I have also played a central role in transforming talent development within GSK chemistry, through the creation of a two-part, modular approach to training, complete with external validation, robust assessment, and recognised qualifications. This incorporates two formally recognised programmes, the GSK Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Development in collaboration with the University of Kent, and the GSK/University of Strathclyde Collaborative PhD Programme, both of which I am the GSK Director.
ED&I is of paramount importance to me and I am notably invested in supporting female scientists in the area of medicinal chemistry. In recognition of my contributions to the ED&I culture within GSK, I won the Race Champion award at the inaugural 2022 GSK Embrace Awards.