What A-Levels did you study?

Maths (Pure, with Mechanics, Further), Physics, Chemistry, General Studies

Degrees?

BA Mathematical Sciences, MSc Applied Statistics, DPhil Mathematics

My job is…

During the semester I give lecture courses in Probability, as well as tutorials and example classes. Contrary to popular belief, we lecturers don't get long vacations - they just mean more time for research! Research can be challenging and a lot of fun, working with colleagues from undergraduates to professors and from Manchester, the UK and abroad.

Home is…

A newish flat in the centre of Manchester. It's walking distance from the University, and has a balcony with canal view - so working from home is a nice option when the schedule allows!

The story so far…

I've had a few different roles since my undergraduate days - working in investments in the UK, Asia and Australia, travelling, playing in bands, teaching maths to children and adults, and more recently researching full time in the UK and Ireland.

Day in the life

I find mornings and evenings ideal for quiet work, and afternoons good for working with people. During the semester I'm often busy with teaching, or in seminars hearing about the latest research. Lunch and coffee are a good time to keep up with colleagues, as well as the various opportunities to play sport. Early evening is great for unwinding with dinner and maybe a little music.

Pet project

The information we get about DNA from sequencing machines can be jumbled up, because of the technology we use. I particularly enjoy thinking about ways to find the information we're looking for despite these difficulties. It's something like looking for a needle in a haystack!

Free time

I play saxophone and take a six-piece band to play at the Cork Jazz Festival each year, which is always great fun. Of course a lot of people see connections between music and maths! Other than that, it's good to keep fit with squash, football and yoga.

What are your burning ambitions?

I'd like to make a decent contribution to science through maths - understanding beautiful pieces of maths and then spotting new ways to use them can be a real buzz!

The best thing is…

Travelling and meeting new people.

Any regret(s)?

Not learning the piano.

What do you love most about science and engineering?

The way that it scales up - a little hard work can potentially make a difference to the world...

Name ONE quirky/crazy fact about you or your job.

I was once in a five-piece band where everyone was left handed. (If

10% of the population are left handed, what are the chances of that?!)