As a marine biologist with over 35 years of research and management experience, I have the privilege of serving in my dream job as Chief Executive of the MBA. My ambition is to make the MBA a career destination of choice, where scientists and professional staff thrive, delivering world-class impact.

Through our Membership, I am equally passionate about empowering marine biology enthusiasts to contribute their voices to the most pressing environmental challenges facing our planet.

I hold a degree in Marine Biology/Biochemistry from Bangor University (1990) and a PhD from the University of Warwick (1994). My career has included senior roles at Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences (USA), and the Sir Alister Hardy Foundation for Ocean Science (SAHFOS).

A self-confessed ‘virus evangelist’ my scientific interests focus on the multiple roles of marine viruses “the lubricants of the great engines of planetary control”. I have expertise revealing the genetic basis of virus infections and their ecological and evolutionary consequences for ocean life. In short, why are viruses essential for life as we know it? My research has contributed to over 130 publications.

Outside work, my favourite sport is curling, I enjoy fly-fishing and spend a lot of time hiking on Dartmoor.