Sophie Oglieve

Post-doctoral research fellow investigating the molecular mechanism in which inhibition of the PARP enzyme, a key protein involved in the signalling and repair of potentially pathogenic DNA substrates (i.e. DNA breaks/gaps and stalled/broken replication forks), selectively kills cancer cells. Supervised and conceived projects for two separate Master students (MSc Cancer Cell Biology). Presented at the UK Genome Stability Network, enabling me to disseminate our recent findings to a wider field. Attended and presented a poster at the international EMBO conference on the DNA-damage response in cell physiology and disease. Regularly present (talks/posters) at internal symposiums, as well as engaging in weekly journal clubs and laboratory meetings. Published recent results in high-impact journals.

Alongside my doctoral studies, I have undertook numerous teaching roles, including leading seminars/workshops and demonstrating in laboratory practicals. By adjusting my communication style according to different levels of understanding, I assured my knowledge and experience was efficiently communicated to everyone.

As a doctoral researcher, I investigated the role of a novel binding motif identified in the DNA repair factor KU80, under the supervision of Prof Keith Caldecott. Comprehensively planned and analysed my results critically, allowing me to develop hypotheses and carry into further experimentation. Regularly engaged and presented in weekly journal clubs and laboratory meetings, allowing me to present and critically analyse recent scientific data. It has developed my ability to notice the merits and drawbacks of the investigators results and identify potential future experiments. From this, I am able to adapt, implement and optimise experiments from previous research to supplement my own research. I have successfully collaborated within the scientific community, both internally and externally, to support both my research and the research of others, enhancing my communication skills.

Eight week summer research project in DNA-protein interactions laboratory at University of Bristol working with Dr Anna Chambers. Characterised the role of a novel protein in genome stability. Used a wide range of techniques including molecular biological cloning, mammalian cell culture and fluorescence microscopy. Adapted and optimised experiments from previous research to supplement my own research. Experienced working as an individual and as a member of a dedicated and skilled research team.

Doctoral researcher in Prof Keith Caldecott's laboratory at the Genome Damage and Stability Centre in the University of Sussex. My project aimed to investigate the molecular role of novel protein-protein interactions sites in DNA double-strand break repair.

Included a 3-month research project in Professor Ian Collinson's laboratory characterising the requirement of the SecA ATPase in antibiotic resistance due to translocation of β-lactamases.