Arifa Naeem

Developing and establishing organoid platforms from human IPSCs to test and evaluate in house viral vectors for Inherited retinal diseases and Neurodegenerative disorders. Using immortalised cell lines to develop toxicity and potency assays for a range of viral vectors produced both in house and via Contract Research organisations. Establishing new techniques and protocols to ensure MeiraGTx research platforms stay on the leading edge preclinical development.

Management of human and mouse stem cell facilities in the department. Establishment of new mouse embryonic stem cell lines. Generation of in vitro photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium from human IPSCs and ESCs for in vivo transplantation. Production of viral capsids for transducing in vitro and in vivo photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium. Line management of technicians. Teaching and training Post docs, technicians and students

Laboratory management including, ordering consumables, budgeting grants, preparing grant summaries, risk assessments, accounting for BSU expenditure, attending meetings and general laboratory organisation. Assisting with electrophysiological and imaging experiments using cell biology, histology, immunohistochemistry, molecular biology and tissue culture techniques and protocols. Responsible for the management of mouse colonies within Wolfson Institute of Biomedical Research BSU.

Develop and implement sales plans for major accounts. Achieve sales targets by identifying opportunities and threats and implement actions required. Develop and maintain relationships with key buyers and users

Carried out laboratory managerial duties for a team of 5-10 people, including co-ordination and provision of equipment, ordering of consumables, daily use of facilities. Worked on Multiple projects looking at the molecules involved in the patterning and guidance of developing embryonic hindbrain neurons. Taught PhD students, B.Sc. students and visiting researchers; techniques, protocols and use of equipment.

Maintenance and cloning of intestinal parasite Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum, to study their cytopathic affects using in-vitro models. Development of in-vitro models using cell lines to study host-parasite interactions in the presence and absence of drugs.

Identification of micro-organisms causing clinical infections using biochemical tests. Performing sensitivity tests to decide best form of antibiotic treatment. Assist with the preparation and maintenance of the cell cultures used for virus isolation.