Personal Statement
I am a Lecturer in Anatomy within the Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science at the University of Liverpool. My research investigates how metabolic dysfunction drives connective tissue degeneration and osteoarthritis, using rare inherited metabolic disorders as translational models to identify disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets relevant to common musculoskeletal disease.

My research combines anatomy, histology, pre-clinical mouse models, human tissue studies and imaging to investigate the mechanisms underlying cartilage, bone, tendon and joint degeneration. I established the first targeted and conditional mouse models of alkaptonuria (AKU), demonstrating the liver as the key therapeutic target for curative interventions. These models underpin international collaborations with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies developing gene, mRNA and molecular therapies, while also providing a unique platform for investigating the biology of connective tissue degeneration.

Since joining Liverpool in 2023, I have established an independent research programme exploring the role of metabolic dysfunction, oxidative stress and calcified cartilage in the initiation and progression of osteoarthritis. My research integrates fundamental anatomy with translational science through collaborations with clinicians, engineers, industry partners and international researchers, with the aim of improving understanding and treatment of musculoskeletal disease.

Alongside my research, I am committed to delivering research-connected teaching that provides students with authentic learning experiences and develops the knowledge and transferable skills needed for careers in biomedical science, healthcare and research.

My long-term vision is to establish an internationally recognised research programme investigating the mechanisms of connective tissue ageing and degeneration, translating discoveries from rare metabolic disease into improved diagnostics and therapies for osteoarthritis and related musculoskeletal disorders.


Academic background

I completed my BSc in Anatomy and Human Biology (2015) and integrated Master's in Biological Sciences (2016) at the University of Liverpool, before undertaking a PhD in Musculoskeletal Biology (2016–2020) under the supervision of Professors James Gallagher, George Bou-Gharios and Lakshminarayan Ranganath. Funded by the AKU Society, my doctoral research established a novel conditional mouse model of alkaptonuria (AKU), defining key metabolic and connective tissue phenotypes and demonstrating the therapeutic potential of dietary phenylalanine and tyrosine restriction.

Following my PhD, I was appointed Lecturer in Anatomy at Edge Hill University (2021–2023), where I taught across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and contributed to curriculum development and anatomy education. I returned to the University of Liverpool in 2023 as Lecturer in Anatomy (Teaching and Research), where I have established an independent research programme investigating the mechanisms by which metabolic dysfunction drives connective tissue degeneration and osteoarthritis, while leading teaching across the BSc Anatomy and Human Biology programme and contributing to medical and postgraduate education.

Research Overview
I welcome enquiries from prospective PhD, MRes and undergraduate research students interested in musculoskeletal biology, connective tissue ageing, osteoarthritis, inherited metabolic disease, animal models, histology or translational therapeutics. Please get in touch to discuss potential projects and funding opportunities.

PhD Students (Primary):
- Oct 2024 – present. Daisy Quinn. Primary Supervisor. Wokring title: “Study of the early pathological changes in calcified cartilage in osteoarthritis and alkaptonuria.” Funded jointly by Faculty (UoL) and AKU Society.

PhD Students (Secondary):
- Feb 2026 – present. Ioana Comanici. Secondary supervisor. Title: “Exploring tyrosine metabolism as a source of oxidative stress.” Primary supervisor: Dr Brendan Norman. Funded by AKU Society.
- Sept 2025 – present. Rabab Alanizi. Secondary supervisor. Title: “Characterisation of the influence of HuR (Elavl1) on osteoblast function”. Primary supervisor: Dr Simon Tew. Funded by Saudi Arabian Cultural Bureau.