My research is centred on the processes underlying healthy ageing, with a dual focus on biological mechanisms and educational interventions. 

In one of my projects, I investigate the genetic and epigenetic regulation of cell lineage specification and tumorigenesis, using pigmentary cells and melanoma as a model system. This work aims to elucidate how alterations in differentiation pathways contribute to cancer progression and cellular identity.

In parallel, I explore the biological and demographic dimensions of cognitive ageing, with emphasis on dementia. My interests include the identification of biomarkers and the development and implementation of preventative strategies. These strategies use social interaction and learning activities as ways to help slow down memory loss and support living with dementia.

I teach Genetics for Years 1-4 in its classical, applied and clinical aspects in lectures and practical lab sessions. Current modules:

Year 1: Fundamentals of Life Genetics Block
Year 2: Genetics (module coordinator)
           Forensic Evidence and Antigen retrieval
Year 3: Pure & Applied Genetics
Year 4: Clinical Genetics
           DNA Technology
           Advancements in Forensic Biology
MSc: Nucleic Acid & Protein Technology (module coordinator)
         Genetic Analysis in Biomedical Science

I am also a teacher and module coordinator for Year 3 "Molecular & Cellular Pathology" module.

I supervise dissertation research projects for Year 4 Biomed/Bioscience and MSc Biotech/Biomed students.

I have finished my Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PgCAP) postgraduate degree in summer 2022. My research into teaching focused on analysing online pedagogies, incorporating new technologies and feedback and assessment strategies in Genetics teaching. 

I acted as the interim Programme Leader for undergraduate Biomedical Science/Applied Biomedical Science programmes for the academic year 22/23.

I volunteer as a STEM Ambassador with local schools. I am interested in researching STEM education both in the young and in older adults. 

Before I started my full time lecturship position at UWS in January 2020, I was a postdoctoral research associate specialised in the epigenetics of healthy ageing and cancer in Professor Peter Adams lab at the University of Glasgow since the end of 2013. I have obtained my PhD in Genetics from the University of Nottingham in 2013, my MSc in Molecular Parasitology & Vector Biology from the Universities of Manchester, Salford & Keele in 2008 and my Diploma in Biochemistry from the Lebanese University in 2006.

In addition to my academic roles stated above, I acted as the interim Programme Leader for the Biomedical Science/Applied Biomedical Sciences Programmes at UWS in the academic year 22/23. I am currently one of the Student Academic Integrity Panel co-Chairs at the School of Health & Life Sciences at UWS and a member of the School Board. I am also the external examiner for MSc & PgDip "Dermatology in Clinical Practice" Programmes at the University of South Wales.  I am a member of STEM Ambassadors Scotland, and I carry out outreach activities in STEM to school students in the west of Scotland. I also hold memberships in the Biochemical Society, the European Society for Pigment Cell Research, British Society for the Research on Aging and Scottish Dementia Research Consortium.