What do you do at ISIS?

I am an instrument scientist working on the IMAT instrument, which is used for neutron imaging and diffraction. I am working on new applications of neutron imaging and diffraction, developing interdisciplinary projects which bring together scientists from different fields.

What route did you take to get to where you are now?

Holder of a degree in mathematics and physics, after ten years of teaching and research in applied mathematics I decided it was time for a new challenge. I came across an opportunity with the Open University and ISIS to ​be involved in the development of the first instrument in the world that would use neutrons for both imaging and diffraction. Since completing my PhD, I have worked as a post-doc on the IMAT instrument, and now as an instrument scientist. 

What key attributes do you need for your job?

A scientist needs to have an inquisitive, resourceful and an open mind. Communication and dialogue also play a very important role in my job.

What do you like most about your job?

The opportunity to be creative, have your own research, initiate and be involved in ground-breaking science projects with partners from universities or other research facilities, and the prolific collaboration with scientists and engineers across different departments.

​What has been your greatest achievement in your role so far?

Doing innovative research on IMAT, the first neutron imaging beamline in the UK for which I have done modelling calculations. The journey from figures to neutron imaging applications in cutting edge life sciences research which I've initiated on IMAT is a real adventure far from its end.