I obtained my PhD at the University of East Anglia. During my PhD I studied the role of microRNAs in skeletal muscle development. This has led to a discovery of microRNA-based mechanisms controlling Pax3 expression during embryonic development of skeletal muscle. I continued my research and characterised novel microRNA:chromatin regulators interactions during muscle development. In 2013 I moved to Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, Liverpool and have been studying the role of epigenetic changes in sarcopenia and muscle wasting in disease. My research has shown the critical role of microRNA in regulation of muscle mass and function during ageing and disease. In my current position at the University of Galway, I am studying the therapeutic potential of microRNAs and oxidised microRNAs against muscle loss during ageing and disease, such as cachexia and ALS. We are also investigating the impact of COVID-19 on long-term muscle wasting and frailty. Finally, we study V-ATPase-related conditions with the aim of developing new interventions and potentially RNA therapies. Our research is funded by IRC, HRB and SFI, JPND.

My research interests include epigenetic mechanisms associated with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular deterioration during ageing and disease. We are interested in the role that microRNAs play in these disorders and are exploring the therapeutic and biomarker potential of microRNAs during ageing and disease. Our lab is also focused on V-ATPase disorders.

I am interested in research-led teaching and lead Pathophysiology of Disease and Therpaeutics modules, as well as contribute teaching in the topics of ageing, muscle, rare disease, molecular biology. I recently developed Enlight REACT Ageing module available to Enlight students.