laura butler

Investigating protein interactions in the DNA double strand break damage response, to aid understanding of cellular mechanisms that may be exploited in cancer therapy. Collaborating on multiple projects with postdoctoral researchers and graduate students, as well as scientists from outside institutions, to extend knowledge, share ideas and promote teamwork. Designing and revising experimental laboratory techniques to screen potential chromatin modifiers and characterize identified proteins of interest. Managing and mentoring undergraduate students. Devising projects, setting goals, teaching techniques, motivating, and providing support and advice.

Continued work from doctoral studies, publishing in The EMBO Journal on the role of the de-ubiqutinating enzyme POH1 in the DNA damage response. Awarded poster prize for quality of research at international 5-yearly DNA repair meeting in the Netherlands.

Supported members of the development laboratory in generation and characterisation of active protein targets for high throughput drug screening. Liaised with members from other departments, including managers, to gain better understanding of the development process from start to finish.

Undertook an industrial placement at Advanced Technologies Cambridge, performing genetic engineering of crop plants for resistance to plant-parasitic nematodes. Participated in international collaboration involving travel from the UK to the US for involvement in a two-week field trial.

* Investigating the selectivity, specificity and anti-cancer potential of ATR inhibitors: * Developing and implementing assays leading to identification of lead compounds and suitable cancer targets * Communicating research through both oral and poster presentations at international conferences, receiving awards for best poster presentations * Writing and submitting grant applications, leading to the successful award of a $300,000 Phase I STTR by the NIH * Driving the biology program: working with colleagues at all levels to establish an effective path forward for drug testing and development * Management and mentoring of research technician and interns * Collaborating with groups at multiple academic institutions across the country to further testing of lead compounds in multiple cancer models * Leading consulting projects as a client of the Penn Biotech Group to provide additional support and information to Atrin on the commercial aspects of the business

I am a Team Leader at PhoreMost where I am involved in planning, running and managing hit validation, progressing drug target candidates towards drug discovery.

Received first class honours BSc Biological sciences","Participated in one-year industrial placement at biotech company Advanced Technologies Cambridge, UK"]

PhD studies researching the role of ubiquitin conjugates in DNA damage.","Conducted research project from start to finish in three years, successfully writing and defending a 178-page thesis on schedule. Co-authored article published in top peer reviewed journal Nature. Used independent thinking and interactions with lab members to solve complex problems relating to discovery of the role of the de-ubiquitinating enzyme POH1 in the DNA damage response."]