My research uses human lens model systems to unravel the mechanisms mediating fibrotic events that lead to the disorder Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) that develops following cataract surgery. My current project is funded by James Tudor Foundation and The Humane Research Trust and examines the effect of both inhibiting VEGF receptors, and the implantation of open capsular bag intraocular lens (IOL) designs on the prevention of PCO.

After obtaining a 2:1 degree in Cell Biology at the University of East Anglia, I worked as a research assistant for Professor George Duncan looking at the intracellular signalling proteins SMADs that are associated with TGFb ligand binding. In addition, I worked with Dr Julie Sanderson developing organotypic tissue culture techniques to study cell populations in the human neural retinal. I subsequently completed a PhD with Professor George Duncan and Dr Julie Sanderson studying the role of extracellular ATP and Adenosine in the human lens and retinal pigment epithelium. Following completion of my PhD I have worked continuously as a senior research associate for Dr Michael Wormstone (https://www.uea.ac.uk/biological-sciences/people/profile/i-m-wormstone) . My post-doctoral research continues to unravel the mechanisms mediating the fibrotic events associated with Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) development using human lens model systems. My current project is funded by James Tudor Foundation (https://www.jamestudor.org.uk). This project examines both the effect of inhibiting VEGF receptors, and the implantation of open capsular bag IOL designs on the prevention of posterior capsule opacification (PCO). Our laboratory also benefits from infrastructure support from The Humane Research Trust (http://www.humaneresearch.org.uk).