I am an expert in freshwater (FW) ecotoxicology and my primary drive and interest is to protect FW biota from threatening process. In particular, for biota inhabiting ephemeral FWs, which are often overlooked but are very abundant globally (3.2 x 10⁹), supporting support exceptionally high biodiversity [e.g. 1]. My education comprises: B.Sc Environmental Biology (2000), MRes Aquatic Ecotoxicology (2003), Doctorate “The effects of Pollutants on Amphibians” (2008). PDRA employment comprises: Fellow/Scientific Project Manager (EU-FP7-project on pollutant mixtures ‘CONTAMED’, 2009-2013), Senior Fellow (“Reproductive Biomarkers in Amphibians”; 2013-2015).

I have conducted laboratory and field studies with amphibians for > 15 years and has worked as a consultant providing expert opinion on chemicals regulation for amphibians (European Commission, 2010-2011; Environment Agency 2021-2022). More recently (since 2018), I have also conducted laboratory exposures to multiple stressors using snail (gastropod) model species.

I have conducted laboratory and field investigations into the impacts of chemical mixtures and I have regularly been invited to speak on this topic at national and international conferences. I am passionate about conducting science using environmentally realistic exposure scenarios in order to better protect wildlife; and in particular amphibians. Due to this drive, her chemicals mixtures work has expanded to encompass co-exposures with other ubiquitous environmental stressors, such as heat waves and invasive species. 

My contribution to the wider research community includes the review of funding bids (Carnegie Trust; internal DTP bids) and manuscripts (e.g. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety) and Editorial responsibilities (Archives of Environmental Toxicology, Frontiers in Amphibian and Reptile Science). I am member of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry and on the Executive Board for the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology. I recently organised an event with the European Pond Conservation Network (> 250 members), focused on collaborations for wetland conservation. I am on the Management Committee for the Pesticide Risk Assessment for Amphibians and Reptiles EU funded COST action.

I lead the freshwater Ecotoxicology group at Heriot-Watt University. I regularly have student/staff posts advertised. Please contact me if you have interest in collaborating with my research group and/or you are seeking PhD opportunities in this area of research.