My research expertise is in glycobiology, namely the study of the structure and function of molecules which contain carbohydrate moieties. My main research interest is in the structure and function of connective tissues, particularly the molecular organisation of the cornea which results in a transparency. I also have research interests in cartilage integrity (including arthritis), neurodegenerative disease (Parkinson's), cancer metastasis and the development of biosensor technologies to study molecular interactions.

I am a Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences within the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences. I am also the University’s Dean of Undergraduate Studies where my role is, in conjunction with others, to enhance the quality of undergraduate learning and teaching at the University. I contribute to strategy and policy development for undergraduate provision, oversee quality assurance & enhancement and also ensure that operational matters are optimized and implemented consistently. I also act as a champion for the recruitment of high-quality undergraduate students and the development of our portfolio of degree programmes. I work closely with many colleagues within the university, primarily the Deputy VC, PVC Colleges and the Student Experience, PVC Research, Faculty Associate Deans for Teaching, the Students' Union, Heads of Departments, the Academic Standards and Quality Unit, the International Office, the UK Student Recruitment Office, the Facilities Division, Information Systems Services (Computing) and many others.

I have a keen interest in the use of technology to support learning and teaching and am involved in a number of university projects in this area. These include:-

- the development of iLancaster, a mobile app for students
- the development of a new virtual learning environment and student portal
- the development of the university's student records system and the enhancement of information provided to students and staff
- the upgrade of IT facilities in all teaching spaces on campus

I am also the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Health and Medicine and a member of University Council, Senate and Court.

My interests focus on a class of molecules called proteoglycans that are key components on all cell surfaces and within extracellular matrices. These molecules are now known to have major roles in tissue organisation, cell signalling, cell adhesion and host-pathogen interactions. My research concentrates on the biomedical implications of proteoglycan function and is designed to lead to a greater understanding of their involvement in a variety of disease processes including the development of osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, the metastatic spread of cancer and corneal eye disease.

BIOL111 Molecules of Life: structure of proteins, carbohydrates and nucleic acids
BIOL201 Biochemistry: glucose homeostasis
BIOL 437 Molecular Basis of Cancer: metastasis

I am also the Director of Studies of the one-year Pre-medical Studies Course (Cert HE)