Dr Aadarash Zia

Aadarash is a scientist in drug delivery at MDC, specialising in the study, design, and exploration of bio-nanoparticles/formulations for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes.

Following her graduation, she worked as a researcher at an Oncology & Radiotherapy institute, focusing on developing radiotracer-payload carriers for non-invasive in vivo imaging. She furthered her expertise by completing a PhD at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Monash University, Australia.

Her interdisciplinary research involved developing novel multifunctional nanoparticles tailored for brain targeting. Her contributions extend to unravelling the intricacies of intracellular uptake within a microfluidic-based human blood–brain barrier on-chip model.

At MDC, her role is multidisciplinary, ranging from formulation development and optimisation to setting up in vitro oncology cell models. This allows her to study cellular responses, drug interactions, and other aspects relevant to drug delivery in research.

Dr Adam Rolt

Adam is a senior scientist within the complex medicines group at MDC. Following a PhD in Chemistry, he carried out postdoctoral positions at the NIH and the University of Oxford, where he was awarded a fellowship and transitioned into a molecular biology role.

At MDC, Adam is responsible for the development of novel phenotypic assay systems for drug discovery, working across several different areas of biology. Adam’s personal research interests lie in translational science, human ageing and the understanding of drug action.

Dr Adriana Gambardella

Adriana joined Medicines Discovery Catapult in 2023 as part of the Virtual Research and Development team to help SMEs develop their strategies and re-disk their programmes.

With extensive research experience within academia and industry (both CROs and biotech companies), working on translational research and drug discovery programmes across different disease areas, from cancer immunology to inflammation and fibrosis. Following a PhD in BioMolecular Science and Biotechnology at European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Italy, she moved to UK for her post-doctoral fellowships (first on inflammation and liver fibrosis at the University of Edinburgh (SCRM), then on Haematology and Stem cell biology at the University of Oxford (WIMM).

In 2016, she joined Immunocore where she used her NGS and flow cytometry expertise to lead the work of her team of scientist and bioinformatics in the Target Validation group to identify new cancer targets. After a couple of years working at Concept Life Science as the Immunology Department Leader, where she gained commercial experience, she joined Redx where she worked as drug discovery Project Leader for the fibrosis and immunology programs and Lead Translational scientist for the most advanced programs: Ph1 study in Chron’s disease and the Ph2a study in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Dr Alexander Henzing

Alexander is a multidisciplinary scientist with a background in biological and medicinal chemistry, cell biology, clinical oncology, data science consulting and business development.

Following post-doctoral positions, he was director of a mass spectrometry facility before moving to clinical oncology as the research manager of the Edinburgh Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre which he managed for nearly a decade. Alexander moved to a software development company where as Product Manager he was responsible for the delivery of a software platform which enabled the safe sharing of clinical data for collaborative research.

More recently Alexander assisted businesses with advice, business plan development access to finance and knowledge transfer aimed at stimulating innovation in the health and life science sectors. Alexander holds an Ing. in Biological Chemistry; MSc in Medicinal Chemistry, PhD in Cell Biology and an MBA.

Dr Ana-Maria Nastase

Ana-Maria is an experienced Python programmer specialising in data processing and algorithm development for mass spectrometry (MS) data. She has developed computational methods based on machine learning algorithms which contribute to the investigation of biological mechanisms and biomarker discovery.

Her PhD in Computational Biology and Machine Learning was focused on implementing algorithms such as Gaussian Process Regression and Sequential Monte Carlo in the analysis of MS and optical biosensors signal data.

Her work at MDC is still very much focused on the development of Python tools and novel algorithms required for data processing in MS, particularly in spatial MS and multiplexed imaging technologies.

Dr Andrzej Rutkowski

While in academia, Andrzej worked in different scientific fields, from oncofoetal antigens to herpes viruses. His projects revolved around changes in gene expression, which is where he developed an array of skills transferrable to biomarker research.

While at AstraZeneca, he developed and multiplexed droplet digital PCR assays and used them to monitor cancer-related mutations in liquid biopsies from patients in early-phase clinical trials. At Medicines Discovery Catapult, he introduced super-sensitive molecular biology techniques, including droplet digital PCR from Bio-Rad and Simoa from Quanterix.

During the pandemic, he was seconded as Assay Innovation and Evaluation Lead to the ISO15189-accredited Alderley Park Lighthouse Lab, which delivered COVID-19 diagnostics. Furnished with these skills and experience, he was appointed lead scientist in Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) biomarkers in MDC, leading the development of a framework for carrying out exploratory analyses on clinical samples in compliance with GCLP guidelines.

Dr Anita Lui

Anita is a multidisciplinary scientist with a strong background in oncology and complex medicine. She has led research across academic and industry settings, focusing on targeted drug delivery, imaging-based evaluation of therapeutics, and ex vivo image analysis.

In her current role, she supports drug discovery by assessing radiopharmaceuticals in preclinical models, generating insights into biodistribution and efficacy. Her work bridges experimental biology with translational imaging to advance precision medicine. Enthusiastic, dedicated, and highly organised, Anita brings strong attention to detail and scientific rigour to every project. She holds a BSc in Biotechnology, an MSc (Res) in Translational Oncology, a PhD in Cancer and Molecular Biology, and is a first author on publications in high-impact journals.

Dr Beverley Isherwood

Beverley has responsibility for setting up and providing strategic and scientific leadership and direction for MDC’s infectious disease Syndicate portfolio, including the CF AMR Syndicate.

Bev has extensive experience in the development and delivery of collaborative research consortia bringing together experts from different sectors to shape research agendas and drive research efforts focused on unmet needs including working with and supporting SMEs who are developing the next generation of medicines for patients. The current focus is on shaping an ecosystem of partnerships in Infectious Disease working with colleagues internally and across the sector to help accelerate medicines development in this area.

MDC representative on the cross-Catapult Research and Technology Group. Bev has extensive experience in drug discovery across a broad range of disease indications and therapeutic modalities having previously held leadership roles in the biopharmaceutical industry. Bev is an Associate Editor for SLAS Discovery, and holds an MA (Natural Sciences) from Cambridge University and a PhD in Molecular Virology from the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research. Member of the Association of Strategic Alliance Professionals with CA-AM accreditation.

Dr Bruno Bellina

Dr Bruno Bellina obtained his PhD in Molecular Spectroscopy from the University Claude Bernard Lyon 1. He then moved for a year to the University of Southern California, Los Angeles (US) where he worked as a post-doctoral researcher in Molecular Physics. Following this, he joined the institute of biotechnology in Manchester, as a post-doctoral and then as a senior experimental officer, where he led a project coupling an ion mobility mass spectrometer with laser spectroscopy.

Bruno also managed research activities and facilities for the collaborative mass spectrometry centre, MBCCMS. His research at MDC now focuses on delivering innovative instrumentation in the drug discovery field with a focus on native mass spectrometry and ion mobility techniques.

Dr Benedetta Arno

Benedetta is an expert scientist with extensive research experience within academia and industry. She has experience in leading in vivo drug discovery projects, with the main focus on characterising complex medicines distribution and efficacy using a broad range of imaging modalities including PET, CT, optical imaging and ultrasound as well as ex vivo tissue analysis.

With great project management skills, she has successfully delivered multiple projects across a variety of diseases and therapeutic areas. Benedetta has a BSc in biotechnology and MSc Hons in biomedical science before completing her PhD in Neuroscience.

Catherine Eagle

Catherine has many years of experience in the biotech industry, primarily in drug discovery with a focus on immuno-oncology and translational science. Catherine has an MSc by Research in cancer cell biology from the University of Bristol. She has expertise in establishing methods to assess drug mechanism, target engagement and PD biomarkers in both pre-clinical and clinical studies.

As lead scientist, Catherine develops complex primary immune cell assays, utilising the innovative analysis capabilities available at Medicines Discovery Catapult to support immunology drug discovery projects.

Dr Chiara Da Pieve

Chiara Da Pieve is a Lead Radiochemist with a background in coordination chemistry and radioactive metals. She has worked on multiple research projects in academia and research institutes, focusing on the development of biomolecule-based conjugates, radioactive probes for imaging and radionuclide therapy.

Her work is mostly focused on cancer but investigates also other disease areas. Chiara translates research findings and advancements into impactful projects. She holds an MSc in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and a PhD in Coordination chemistry.

Constance Takawira

Constance joined the team as the Partnership Manager for the CF AMR Syndicate. Constance’s main background is in clinical pharmacy, working both in the UK and in New Zealand.

During her time in New Zealand, she specialised in respiratory medicine and served as a member of the antimicrobial stewardship committee. Her current focus is on building and supporting the CF AMR Network and the UK CF Infection Biorepository to further the cross-collaborative medicines discovery vision at the heart of the Syndicate.

Constance holds a MPHARM in Pharmacy from the University of Brighton and an MSc in Global Health from Gothenburg University.

Dr Ekta Patel

Ekta is responsible for the management of the Psychiatry Consortium. Ekta is a translational scientist with many years of drug discovery research experience in both academic and industrial roles.

Combining her scientific knowledge and experience of working across SMEs, academic research groups and pharmaceutical companies, Ekta provides in-depth support to our collaborators to develop and deliver our portfolio of projects.

Alongside her role at the Psychiatry Consortium, Ekta is a member of the Greater Manchester HRA Research Ethics Committee and is a strong advocate of patient involvement throughout the drug discovery process.

Eleanor Platt

Eleanor Platt is a Molecular Scientist within the Biomarkers team at Medicines Discovery Catapult. Eleanor undertook a degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Bath and completed her M.Phil. in Molecular Cancer Studies at the University of Manchester, with a focus on the role of glucocorticoid receptor in small cell lung cancer cell apoptosis.

She was offered the opportunity to work within the pharmacokinetics laboratory in a large CRO, processing and testing patient biological samples. She subsequently worked within the R&D Department at a leading molecular diagnostics company for five years, developing PCR-based diagnostics to better direct treatment of patients with cancer and infectious diseases.

Eleanor’s current research interests focus on ageing and age-related diseases, particularly expression of age-related biomarkers in plasma and the mechanisms through which bisphosphonates such as Zoledronate may reduce the rate of ageing, as well as the incidence of cancers and cardiovascular disease.

Dr Emily Offer

Emily has extensive experience in cell and molecular biology applied to drug discovery. Emily’s academic research involved the development and validation of stem cell-derived models of disease and has subsequently led teams in large global pharma and biotech companies, developing cellular assays for both screening and phenotypic analysis of large and small molecule drugs, from target identification and validation through to candidate drug selection.

Emily is currently working at Medicines Discovery Catapult as Head of In vitro Biology, supporting SMEs, academics and drug discovery researchers to evaluate their drug or technology. Her team applies cell and molecular biology expertise in vitro using cellular models coupled with advanced technologies to evaluate cellular response. From target engagement to phenotypic response, the team aims to build translational evidence for a partners asset aligned to their key goals.

Dr Emma Jones

Emma is a lead scientist with extensive experience in investigating neuronal and glial cell function in the developing and diseased CNS across academic and industrial settings.

Emma has a PhD from the University of Manchester and carried out postdoctoral research at McGill University (Montreal, Canada).

In her role at Medicines Discovery Catapult, Emma is responsible for developing innovative complex CNS cell models and cell behaviour assays for drug discovery projects.

Dr Eve Corrie

Eve joined Medicines Discovery Catapult in January 2022 following her PhD in Biomedical Science at the University of Sheffield.

There she focused on research into the mechanisms of chronic neuropathic pain and the use of novel, retargeted botulinum toxins to prevent or reverse it. As part of a MRC iCASE studentship, she gained experience of both academic research at Sheffield and translational research within industry at Eli Lilly.

In her role within the cell models team at MDC, she applies her expertise of functional neuronal assays to complex iPSC-derived CNS models.

Gayle Marshall

Gayle has extensive experience in biomarker and omics research.

Leading a large, multi-skilled translational science laboratory team, within a global Pharma department supporting biomarker strategies across 14 drug discovery programs covering more than 20 clinical studies, through to leading a large multi-disciplinary team within MDC.

Gayle directs multi-biomarker analysis and assay development, supporting diagnostic development initiatives, and delivering key pre-clinical and clinical biomarker data.

Gayle is currently working at Medicines Discovery Catapult as Head of Translational Medicine, supporting SMEs, academics and drug discovery researchers to identify the right biomarkers and clinical approach for their drug or asset development.

Grace Haydon

Grace graduated with a BSc in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Bath in 2021. Following her degree, she gained valuable experience in Oncology drug discovery at a biotech company before joining Medicines Discovery Catapult as an Associate Scientist in the Biomarkers team in 2023.

In her current role, Grace specialises in a variety of advanced spatial biology techniques, including spatial transcriptomics and proteomics, with a particular focus on spatial epigenetics. Her work seeks to add spatial context to the study of biomarkers, enhancing our understanding of diseases and their potential therapeutics.

Dr Graeme Wilkinson

Graeme is the Strategy Leader for Drug Discovery Horizons at Medicines Discovery Catapult.

A pharmacologist by training, and with extensive experience in the industry, Graeme has a track record of successfully leading drug discovery and capability enhancement projects in large pharma and start-up across many disease areas.

In addition, Graeme has also significant experience in instigating and leading open innovation, and drug repositioning programmes.

Heather Joy

Heather Joy is an in vivo scientist with a BSc in Zoology and extensive experience in pre-clinical in vivo research, particularly in PK/PD, oncology and infectious disease models.

She holds a Personal Licence (PIL) and is certified as a Named Animal Care and Welfare Officer (NACWO), ensuring high standards of animal welfare and regulatory compliance.

With well-established technical expertise in regulated procedures and surgical techniques, Heather plays a key role in the design and delivery of complex in vivo studies. Holding a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt qualification, she also supports process improvements and operational efficiency within pre-clinical research environments.

Dr Helene Fachim

Helene is a multidisciplinary neuroscientist and Partnership Manager with over a decade of experience in epigenetics, genomics, and behavioural neuroscience, focused on dementia and mental health.

She brings cross-sector experience from academia, industry, and the NHS, contributing to national programmes through scientific expertise, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration. With 45 peer-reviewed publications and international recognition, her work spans biomarker development, drug repurposing, and translational research.

Helene is known for her detail-driven approach, strong collaboration skills, and contributions to research strategy and delivery. She is passionate about bridging science between academia, industry, and healthcare to support innovation and improve outcomes in brain health

Dr Hervé Barjat

Following undergraduate studies in chemistry at Université Claude Bernard in Lyon, and an M.Sc. in physical methods of chemical analysis at UEA, he specialised in NMR spectroscopy whilst studying for a PhD at the University of Manchester with Prof. Gareth Morris. He developed novel data acquisition methods as well as analysis tools in high-field liquid-state NMR spectroscopy, with applicability to MRI. This work continued in Cambridge with Prof. Ray Freeman. He subsequently joined GSK as a founding member of a small imaging team focused solely on the application of MRI for the study of models of Neurology and gastrointestinal diseases.

He joined AstraZeneca in 2007 and worked in a multi-modality imaging department (MRI, PET, CT, ultrasound) studying drug efficacy and toxicity in a range of therapeutic areas. During part of this time, he was the industry-side project manager for the IMI QuIC-ConCePT project aimed at assessing whether selected quantitative imaging measurements can be used as validated biomarkers of treatment effect on tumours.

After a brief period at STFC’s Scientific Computing Department in Daresbury, working on modelling some properties of active pharmaceutical ingredient formulations, he joined MDC in early 2019. He is focusing on imaging informatics, in particular the management and analysis of the wide range of imaging data produced in the laboratories.

Dr Irma O’Meara

Irma completed a PhD at the University of Manchester studying molecular imaging on mouse brain samples using the TOF-SIMS technique.

Prior to joining MDC, Irma worked as a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Manchester. During this time, Irma developed methods for applying Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) to a range of samples using cutting-edge techniques to answer biological questions. Irma has experience with imaging biological tissues using techniques such as DESI, MALDI and TOF-SIMS.

Irma’s current interest is the analysis of complex biological systems using MSI in multi-disciplinary projects and applying new methods and technologies.

John Vincent

John is a Lead Scientist with extensive experience in drug discovery roles, developing biochemical and cellular assays in a range of technologies and formats, utilising an array of laboratory equipment and automation.

John has a degree from the University of Nottingham and previously worked for 23 years at AstraZeneca in roles spanning microbiology, oncology and high-throughput screening.

In his role at the Medicines Discovery Catapult, John is responsible for the development and validation of robust cellular and biochemical in vitro assays to monitor target engagement and modulation and provides expertise in the areas of drug discovery, screening and automation.

Johnny Habchi

Johnny is a leader in Life Sciences R&D with extensive experience spanning academia, biotech and consultancy.

Johnny began his career in academic research where he secured prestigious fellowships and led pioneering initiatives at top Universities, including the University of Cambridge. He then pursued several executive education programmes in management, R&D strategy and digital transformation at INSEAD, Cambridge Judge Business School and Imperial College Business School.

Johnny went on to co-found and scale a biotech startup that secured tens of millions in funding. In this role he built and managed high‑performance teams and developed and scaled proprietary assays and technologies that accelerated timelines from target identification to candidate nomination. He led several R&D programs, both internally and in collaboration with global pharma, provided consulting services to multiple drug discovery and biotech clients, and established strategic partnerships at the interface between academia and industry.

His work to date has yielded over 50 peer‑reviewed publications and patented technologies in drug discovery across multiple therapeutic areas. Johnny combines data-driven decision making, operational efficiency and R&D strategy to help clients scale platforms, reduce timelines and optimise discovery portfolios. An accomplished communicator and thought leader, Johnny has been invited to speak and serve on panels at numerous international conferences and has served on editorial and PhD committees internationally. He also holds a fellowship and supports entrepreneurial activities at Hughes Hall College, Cambridge, underscoring his commitment to science and innovation.

Jonathan Thomas

Since joining Medicines Discovery Catapult in April 2022 as a Business Development Manager, Jonathan has worked with the Biomarkers team, supporting SMEs, academics, and drug discovery researchers in identifying suitable biomarkers and clinical approaches for their drug or asset development.

Jonathan’s passion for innovation has led him to excel in commercial roles within the Life Sciences and Biotech sectors since his departure from the laboratory in 1998.

Dr Juliana Maynard

Juliana Maynard is an expert Imaging Scientist specialising in pre-clinical imaging technologies, which ultimately aims to advance innovative drug discovery, bringing medicines to patients, faster.

An enthusiastic, proactive, very committed and hard-working individual Juliana has worked with a broad range of imaging modalities including PET, SPECT, CT, ultrasound and MRI. She has a proven track record of research as evidenced in her publications across a wide range of disease and therapy areas.

She possesses good project management skills and has successfully delivered multiple projects with a strong delivery focus. She enjoys working across boundaries using her interpersonal skills to engage with customers and to “put an idea” into practice. Juliana has been based in the North West since earning her PhD at the University of Edinburgh in 2006.

She worked at the University of Manchester and then spent 9 years in increasingly senior roles at AstraZeneca. On leaving AstraZeneca, Juliana recognised the opportunity that medical imaging can have in improving and accelerating drug discovery and set up the creation of a commercial imaging service offering with the ambition to make this readily available for use across the UK drug discovery community.

Dr Kerry Shea

Kerry has extensive expertise in drug discovery, primarily within the neuroscience and oncology disease areas. She has previously held roles at AstraZeneca and the DNA repair biotech company, KuDOS Pharmaceuticals, where she led oncology drug discovery projects from target identification through to candidate drug selection.

At MDC, she established a cell models capability in neuroscience before moving to her current role where she specialises in identifying and profiling molecular biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr Lauren Toms

Lauren is a Senior Scientist in Single Molecule Localisation Microscopy (SMLM) with experience using and optimising super-resolution microscopy techniques.

Lauren has a PhD from the University of Manchester, where she used advanced microscopy to investigate the ultrastructure of proteins in cardiac myocytes in health and heart failure.

At Medicines Discovery Catapult, Lauren has established the SMLM technique for use in drug discovery across a wide range of sample types to answer different biological questions. This technique provides more information than previously possible with fluorescence microscopy, achieving resolutions of <20nm.

Dr Lorna Fitzpatrick

Lorna is a Lead scientist with many years of experience in molecular biology and genetic engineering in primary, stem and cancer cells.

Lorna has a PhD from St. George’s University of London and carried out post-doctoral research at Manchester Metropolitan University before joining Medicines Discovery Catapult.

In her current role, Lorna develops reporter models of disease pathways for both in vitro and in vivo readouts. She also has developed expertise in establishing capabilities to characterise intracellular delivery of complex medicines.

Dr Lucy Frost

Following a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Warwick, Lucy joined Medicines Discovery Catapult in April 2021 as a Postdoctoral Scientist.

Lucy has a key role in the biomarkers team to develop bioinformatic tools and pipelines for the visualisation and interpretation of transcriptomic data. Lucy combines knowledge in molecular biology with bioinformatic techniques to interrogate large data sets and translate them into valuable biological information.

Developing advanced data processing tools and techniques is essential for maximising the informational output of biological data to improve biomarker identification and advance therapeutic strategies against disease.

Dr Lynne Braidwood

Lynne joined Medicines Discovery Catapult (MDC) in 2021 as part of the Business Development Team. She supports MDC’s capabilities in Cellular Sciences, Translational Imaging, and Biomarkers. In this role, Lynne collaborates with pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, SMEs, and academic researchers, helping them develop and execute studies by leveraging MDC’s expertise, technology, and wet lab capabilities.

Lynne has a strong research background in oncology and virology. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology and Genetics from the University of Edinburgh and a PhD in Oncolytic Viruses in combination with targeted anti-cancer agents from the Centre of Virus Research at the University of Glasgow.

Lynne was a scientist at the Beatson CRUK labs and then with small biotech company developing an oncolytic virus, which sponsored her PhD. Her role within the company transitioned from a lab-based scientist to a business development role, where she played a key role in the company’s acquisition by a major US biotech firm. Since then, Lynne has worked in commercial roles within the Life Sciences sector before joining Medicines Discovery Catapult.

Macy Wang

Macy Wang is an Investment (Principal) at MDV with a multidisciplinary background in Neuroscience, Engineering and Finance.

Before joining MDV, she worked in the City of London for six years. She has a successful tracking record of projects advising global strategic & financial investors, innovative businesses and MNC on a variety of deals at PwC Deals Advisory. Prior to this, she worked on high-profile portfolio management at Lloyd’s of London. Macy also has extensive experiences working with academics, entrepreneurs and health systems.

Macy holds a PhD in Neurosciences and Engineering from UCL and has MBA electives from London Business School.

Dr Maike Langini

M.Sc. Maike Langini obtained her Master’s degree in Bio- and Pharmaceutical Analysis at the Fresenius university of applied sciences in Idstein (Germany).

She is finishing her PhD in chemistry at the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (Germany) with Prof Kai Stühler in the Molecular Proteomics Laboratory. Previous research focused on lncRNA based perturbations of protein signatures in brain tumours, secretome analysis in cancer cell lines, tumour tissue proteomics and phospho-proteomics.

Currently, Maike is working at Medicines Discovery Catapult with a focus on applying mass spectrometry-based proteomics in the field of drug discovery.

Dr Malcolm Haddrick

Malcolm is a Lead Scientist at MDC with extensive experience in diverse Drug Discovery projects for efficacy and safety targets working at Pfizer and AstraZeneca.

Malcolm has a PhD from the University of Leicester, followed by a postdoctoral position at the NIH in the USA studying HIV-1 pathogenesis.

At MDC, his current role is the development of more predictive cell models by exploiting multi-cellular cultures, organ-on-a-chip technologies and leading-edge detection techniques.

Dr Marc Daigneault

Marc Daigneault is a funding and life science strategy and innovation specialist, having secured over £90m in funding for SMEs and RTOs undertaking transformative research and development across Europe, catalysing a further £800 million in private investment and corporate deals.

He is a cellular and molecular biologist (M.Sc., Ph.D.) with deep expertise in infection and immunology.

Dr Martina Sykorova

Martina is a senior scientist with experience in cell biology techniques and genetic engineering approaches for adoptive therapy.

Martina completed her master’s degree in medical genetics and molecular diagnostics at Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic, followed by a placement at the Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine department at the University of Liverpool. During this time, she focused on highly multiplexed detection of RNAs and proteins in single cells, using CYTOF mass cytometry.

In 2018, Martina joined the Research and Development team at Immetacyte Ltd, where she helped develop tumour infiltrating lymphocyte engineering platforms, which is advancing towards clinical application.

In 2023, Martina joined Complex medicine’s team at Medicines Discovery Catapult, working on a novel high-throughput, automated workflow to screen lipid nanoparticle payloads and formulations, as well as enhanced in vitro methods to interrogate their biology in detail.

Dr Michael Eyres

Michael joined Medicines Discovery Catapult as an intern at the start of 2019 at the end of his PhD in Oncology at Oxford University.

Michael stayed at MDC to volunteer at the Lighthouse COVID test labs at the start of the pandemic and then joined MDC as a senior scientist in spatial biomarkers. Now he applies spatial proteomic and transcriptomic techniques on a wide range of tissues and diseases.

Mikaela Griffiths

After completing her MSc in Medical Molecular Biology and Genetics at Bangor University, Mikaela began her industry career at Qiagen in product development, gaining experience with ISO 13485 for medical devices.

She later moved to Bristol and joined Charles River Labs (CRL), where she worked primarily in immunology, and quickly discovered that the skills developed at Qiagen served her well for working to ISO 9001 standards and in compliance with Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) guidelines.

In addition to supporting preclinical studies across various techniques, Mikaela supported and eventually led bioanalytical method validation for assays such as NanoString nCounter, Luminex, and ELISpot for their use in analysis of exploratory biomarkers in GCLP studies. Over time, her role evolved and she became an Analytical Project Manager, overseeing six GCLP studies across five clinical trials.

After 5 years at CRL, Mikaela left to join MDC in early 2022 to support the development and implementation of MDC’s overarching GCLP framework, leveraging her prior experience in exploratory biomarker analysis. Her focus now primarily lies in continuous improvement and refinement of the GCLP framework, and conducting clinical studies at MDC, from early study conception through to reporting.

Dr Nisha Ponnappan

Nisha joined as a scientist at MDC in 2021 after obtaining her PhD in Biological Sciences from Indian Institute of Technology Delhi. Her academic research focussed on identifying and characterising small peptide sequences from animal toxins that can act as drug delivery vectors in mammalian cells. The work led to an award of patent for a novel cell-penetrating peptide sequence in 2021.

At MDC, Nisha is involved in complex medicines projects. Her work mainly focusses on characterising efficacy of drug delivery vectors and nucleic acid therapeutics in vitro along with development of bioassays for better understanding of behaviour of nanoparticles within the cellular environment.

Dr Paul Sharp

Paul Sharp is a Senior Preclinical Imaging Scientist with extensive experience in driving innovation in translational research within academia and industry.

Paul has a PhD in neuroscience and expertise across multiple therapeutic areas from oncology to CNS disorders, with a strong focus on applying anatomical and functional imaging modalities for disease phenotyping, PK/PD readouts and evaluating whole-body biodistribution of complex medicines.

Dr Phil Auckland

A chromosome biologist by training, Phil has spent 12 years utilising fluorescence microscopy to visualise molecular processes at the single-cell level.

Phil completed his PhD and early postdoctoral studies at Warwick University, where he developed imaging methods to understand the force-generating mechanisms that move chromosomes during cell division. He then moved to Rice University as a Fellow to work on cell-fate decision making during early human development.

In 2021, he established an independent research group at the Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics at King’s College London. He joined Medicines Discovery Catapult to lead the Advanced Microscopy team in 2023.

In his current role, Phil develops bespoke microscopy assays for the mechanistic characterisation of disease phenotypes and novel medicines. He also leads the establishment of novel imaging technologies to ensure that the MDC is at the forefront of microscopy-based drug discovery.

Dr Philippa Hart

Philippa’s interest in MS imaging began during her PhD studies with the application of MALDI in the group of Prof. Malcolm Clench.

Philippa has over extensive experience in the field gained in both academia and industry, including roles at both Shimadzu and Waters. During this time she gained experience in clinical applications of MALDI MS and expanded her knowledge of MSI to the application of DESI.

At MDC, Philippa is driving and leveraging the use of MS surface analysis in drug discovery. Her main focus is to apply MSI in combination with other analytical techniques, to help MDC clients and collaborators in their research, through increased understanding of biodistribution, biomarker studies and beyond.

Regine Anderson

After completing a Master’s Degree in Advanced Biomedical Sciences at De Montfort University, Regine began working as a biobank tissue co-ordinator for Nottingham University Hospitals, managing donor consent and tissue preservation.

She later joined the University Hospitals of Leicester as part of a team enlisted to manage an Emergency Department ‘hot’ lab, performing urgent biochemistry and haematology tests. Regine later obtained state registration from the IBMS and worked as a Biomedical Scientist validating and authorising haematology test results, within a multidisciplinary Fast-Track laboratory.

After some time, Regine accepted a role as a Specialist Biomedical Scientist within the Point-of-Care Testing department and was heavily involved in validating new devices and other governance activities.

Regine left the Midlands to join the Biomarkers team at Medicine’s Discovery Catapult (MDC) in March 2022 where her main focus is sourcing human samples to support the various discovery projects. Regine also sits on MDC’s Internal Ethics Committee to assist with compliance to HTA regulations.

Regine’s path to research was untraditional, but an emphasis on quality control has been a common theme throughout her career. Regine now calls on that experience as she works to ensure that MDC and the science community they serve, have better access to the highest quality samples for research.

Dr Rhianna Briars

Rhianna Briars is a BSc Biomedical Sciences (Pharmacology) graduate with a PhD and postdoctoral research experience in natural product extraction, who moved into a career of Knowledge Exchange and Transfer roles, largely within universities, and has experience in grant writing for an SME technology research company.

Her experience spans initiating collaboration opportunities and exploring development of innovation proposals. In her current role at MDC (Funding and Research Development Manager) she works on forming collaboration opportunities between the Discovery Scientists and SMEs or academic groups, largely through grant funding. Rhianna also supports the technical IP management and developing academic alliances.

Richard Berrisford

Richard joined Medicines Discovery Catapult in January 2025 in the position of senior scientist. In his current role, he applies his knowledge of radiochemistry to lead projects on producing radiolabelled compounds for pre-clinical research studies.

He has a background in radiopharmaceuticals, starting in 2019 at Alliance Medical Radiopharmacy. There he worked in manufacturing and quality control testing of various radiopharmaceuticals for clinical batch release. These were used to support PET-CT diagnostic scans across the UK at various NHS hospitals and scanning sites.

Richard completed his MSc in Analytical Science and BSc in Biochemistry and Human Biology at Keele University.

Dr Robert Pedley

Robert joined Catapult in 2023 following a PhD in molecular Cancer Studies at the University of Manchester, investigating spatiotemporal protein-protein interactions in response to cytotoxic chemotherapies, and postdoctoral research posts utilising spatial biology techniques (high-plex immuno-staining, laser-capture microdissection in conjunction with LC-MS/MS) to identify biomarker of cancer risk in at-risk patient cohorts.

Robert’s current interests are in using the latest spatial biology technologies to generate holistic insights into the pathobiology of diseased tissues and exploiting this knowledge to identify clinically relevant molecular biomarkers of disease.

Dr Rosemary Shoop

Rosie is a research associate working in the preclinical imaging team with a background in energy balance research. She has extensive experience working with a range of transgenic, mutant, and disease murine models, collecting behavioural and physiological data, as well as experience in a range of ex vivo techniques. An enthusiastic scientist, Rosie has a keen interest in generating high-quality, reproducible in vivo data, with a focus on excellence in animal welfare.

Rosie obtained her MSci Neuroscience (2017) from University of Manchester, and her PhD (2023) also from University of Manchester.

Sarah Brockbank

Sarah Brockbank leads the strategy for Complex Medicines at Medicines Discovery Catapult. In this role she draws on internal expertise and the external environment, through membership of national programmes and a portfolio of client projects, to develop and implement a core strategy for complex medicines that is responsive to the needs of this emerging area.

Sarah has extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry. She is a molecular biologist with a focus mainly in target identification and validation and has worked across a broad range of disease areas. Sarah was a Drug Discovery Project Leader at AstraZeneca, and she also has extensive experience in the leadership and management of large public-private consortia and collaborations.

Dr Tara Bowen

Dr Tara Bowen obtained her PhD in Biosciences from the University of Birmingham in 2023. As part of a collaboration between Prof Mark Viant’s Metabolomics and System Toxicology laboratory and AstraZeneca, Tara’s research focused on developing and implementing mass spectrometry-based metabolomics workflows as a strategy towards discovering predictive biomarkers of drug-induced cardiotoxicity.

Tara’s current focus at Medicines Discovery Catapult is on delivering mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and small molecule analysis to support diverse drug discovery projects.

Dr Tatiane Takahashi

Tatiane has many years of pre-clinical research experience within academia and industry. She has expertise in psychiatric disorders and oncology, as well as experience in leading in vivo drug discovery projects of complex medicines.

Tatiane is well acquainted in applying non-destructive imaging modalities in in vivo studies, such as PET, CT, MRI and IVIS, and vast experience in ex vivo tissue imaging and molecular analysis.

Tatiane holds a BSc and MSc in Pharmacology and has received a PhD with Magna cum laude distinction in neuropsychopharmacology from Heidelberg University in Germany.

Thomas Chapman

Tom Chapman is an experienced In vivo scientist with a robust background in both academia and industry.

Skilled in designing and executing preclinical in vivo studies across multiple therapeutic areas with a strong focus on surgery and PK modelling. Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally, manage complex studies and deliver high quality data that drive decision making.

Committed to ethical research and continuous scientific advancement. He holds a BSc in veterinary science.

Tracy Hall

Tracy is an expert senior scientist who has a wealth of expertise over many years and now specialises in pre-clinical imaging technologies, which ultimately aims to advance innovative drug discovery, bringing medicines to patients, faster.

An enthusiastic, proactive, very committed and hard-working individual Tracy has worked with a broad range of imaging modalities across a number of therapeutic areas. She has a proven track record of research for many years and a wealth of industry expertise. She excels in good project management skills and has successfully delivered multiple projects with a strong delivery focus.

Tracy started her career at Zeneca and has previous experience with DMPK and toxicology projects. Now at Medicines Discovery Catapult, Tracy enjoys working across various models of translational projects with advanced imaging capabilities and surgical procedures. Tracy plays a pivotal role in supporting our SME and industry partners in their pre-clinical imaging studies.

Dr William Drewe

William joined Medicines Discovery Catapult (MDC) in 2021 and is a member of the Business Development Team supporting MDC’s Translational Imaging capability.

In this role William works to support pharmaceutical companies, SMEs and academic researchers develop and execute pre-clinical imaging studies by connecting them with MDC’s expertise, technology and wet-lab capabilities.

William has a research background in medicinal and biological chemistry (MSci Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry – University of Nottingham; PhD in the Rational Design of G-Quadruplex DNA Interacting Ligands – School of Pharmacy, University of London).

Following a period of Post-Doctoral Chemistry Research at the University of Nottingham, William joined the Leeds-based toxicology software company Lhasa Limited as a Scientist, before transitioning into the Global Alliance Team, working closely with global regulators and big pharma to foster the wider adoption of in silico approaches across the industry.