Profile – Gallium Zone

Education:

Europen School, Oxfordshire (1991-1997)
Qualifications:

BA from the University of Oxford (1997-2000); PhD from Napier University, Edinburgh (2002-2006)
Work History:

I’ve worked at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology – Oxford, King’s College London and University College London
Current Job:

I’m a postdoctoral researcher.

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Rather than using conventional methods to study bacteria, like growing them, I look at their DNA to see how they interact with one another and the world around them. I also look at the genes that some bacteria have that make them resistant to antibiotics, like the ones in MRSA. These genes can often move from one type of bacteria to another so it’s really important to know how they work.
My Typical Day:

My days are quite varied, but I spend most of my time in the lab carrying out experiments on my bacteria.
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This generally involves growing the bacteria, taking out their DNA and then manipulating it in various ways. But I also spend time analysing the results of my experiments, writing up my studies, reading about other people’s studies, going to conferences in exotic locations, supervising students and fielding lots of e-mails.
What I'd do with the prize money:

I’d buy a microscope with a camera that I’d take to schools to show students the various bacteria that live in and around us.

Lena Ciric