Briefly, tell us about your background and career up to this point?
I did my undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Leeds, where I enjoyed modules in genetics, ecology, biochemistry, and more. Between my second and final year of my degree, I completed a placement with the West Yorkshire Police as a CSI. My role involved processing forensic evidence on crime scenes, conducting original research, and validating pre-existing forensic technologies. In my final year of my undergraduate degree, I took part in a two-week field course at Shamwari game reserve in South Africa, where I saw victims of poaching first hand. These two experiences lead me to pursue a PhD in wildlife forensics at King’s College London. I have just finished the second year of my PhD. I have published my first paper (a literature review) and I am currently writing the manuscript for my original experiments. I am also enrolled in the AKC (Associateship of King's College) and I recently won the Leathes prize for the AKC essay competition.
What do you think people in the School would find most surprising about you?
I have been doing Muay Thai for nearly two years now, and I’ve fought in matches. I’ve also been a part of, and taught classes for, an improv comedy group! Best not to do both hobbies at the same time…
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
I would tell her that you don’t have to try to please people quite so much. I would also tell her that her voice matters more than she thinks it does, and that she is capable of creating positive change in her community.
Who inspires you most and why?
My mum and dad really inspire me. They didn’t have a lot of opportunities growing up, but my parents managed to grow a company that employs over 100 people. One day, I hope to have a positive impact on people like they do.
What is something positive that happened to you in 2021?
I got to spend more time with my family, and I got accepted onto my PhD programme here at KCL! Lockdowns taught me to savour every moment because they are precious. Also, to give my friends and family a big hug, and not to take that for granted.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
I’m quite an anxious person, but I’m proud that I’ve gone from being a bit scared to go out and do things, to someone who lives in London my myself, far away from home. I’m still anxious, but I can overcome it more effectively now.
What is your favourite thing about working at King’s?
My colleagues are amazing, and we support each other as co-workers and friends. It’s a joy to be able to collaborate on research with some of my favourite people.
QUICK-FIRE:
Favourite season: Autumn (Spooky season)
Favourite London restaurant: Chutney Mary
Favourite cuisine: Southern Indian/ Sri Lankan
Coffee order: Not a big coffee drinker, but I love a hot chocolate with whipped cream.