I work in the University’s Analytical Methods Laboratory maintaining a wide range of analytical instrumentation, facilitating the teaching of analytical chemistry and working with researchers.
I have a PhD in the Potential Evidential Value of Perfumes, Antiperspirants and Deodorants and have specific expertise in chromatography and Scanning Electron Microscopy.
As an active member of the Burial Research Group, I have worked on the application of instrumental chemical analysis to decomposition for almost a decade and co-supervised PhD research in the analysis of biogenic amines as marker chemicals. I have also been a technical advisor on numerous European internships, post-graduate and undergraduate decomposition projects in Forensic Science.
Other current research interests include the human chemical profile and the analysis of stress hormones such as cortisol.
This is my second career since, following many years as a Data Network Analyst, I took a radical change of direction in 2005 and enrolled on Staffordshire University’s Forensic Science Award later graduating with a First Class honours degree and with the Scientifics prize for best Forensic Science Student and the RSC prize for Best Forensic Chemistry project.
Professional memberships and activities
Royal Society of Chemistry
Higher Education Academy
Academic qualifications
PhD in The Potential Evidential Value of Perfumes, Antiperspirants and Deodorants
BSc(Hons) Forensic Science
Postgraduate Certificate of Higher and Professional Education
Postgraduate Certificate in Research Supervision
Expertise
Analytical chemistry – particularly the analysis of volatile organic compounds using gas chromatography.
Scanning Electron Microscopy.
Research interests
The evidential value of fragrance compounds and human scent.
The chemistry of the burial environment.
Analysis of stress hormones by HPL.