Experience
Explore April's professional journey, diverse experience, skills, and the impact of her work.
PhD Research at the University of Cambridge
2020 - 2024
April completed her PhD research at the University of Cambridge, specialising in immunology and virology. Her cutting-edge research delved into the mechanisms of immunogenic cell death in cancer cells undergoing oncolytic virotherapy. Her work contributes novel insights to the growing field of cancer immunotherapy.
Throughout her doctoral studies, April developed a wide range of technical and analytical skills, including advanced cell culture techniques, viral manipulation, flow cytometry, and gene editing. She also gained experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, all of which have shaped her ability to approach complex scientific problems with precision and creativity.
Judge Business School's EnterpriseTECH Programme
2021 - 2022
Consulted on the commercial feasibility of an early-stage biotechnology start-up company. Developed business-related skills with a blend of intensive lectures and practical application of knowledge to a project. Undertook market research and produced a written report for the client, analysing the commercial feasibility of the technology and providing a business development plan. Delivered a pitch presentation and video infomercial targeted at investors. Project received a certificate of distinction.
Science Communication Internship at The Royal Institution
2022 - 2023
Co-ordinated the planning and filming of the BBC’s Christmas Lectures, collaborating with the Ri production team, academic researchers, a TV production company, and multimedia developers.
Administrated meetings and managed multidisciplinary teams across 4 departments, liaised with C-level executive stakeholders, and ensured overall alignment of tasks and delivery of outputs.
Led the organisation of a symposium for 200 sixth-form students from underserved communities, overseeing content development, budget management, logistics, and event coordination.
Research Assistant at Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute
2019 - 2020
April led an independent research project investigating immunosuppression in the allergic lung. Her work involved a variety of advanced laboratory techniques, including culturing eosinophils from bone marrow, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR/genotyping, confocal microscopy, in vivo rodent studies, and histology.
In addition to her research contributions, April played a key role in laboratory management, overseeing tasks such as updating databases, managing stock orders, and ensuring the proper maintenance of equipment. This experience further honed her organisational skills while contributing to the smooth operation of the lab.
Research Internship at University of Massachusetts Medical School
2018
During her internship at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, April worked in the Infectious Disease department under the mentorship of Professor Kate Fitzgerald. Her research focused on inflammatory signalling and cellular senescence, contributing to ongoing studies in these critical areas of immunology.
April was selected for this prestigious internship as the top Junior Sophister candidate in the School of Biochemistry and Immunology, an achievement that recognised her academic excellence and potential in research. This hands-on experience allowed her to develop key laboratory skills and deepen her understanding of cellular processes in disease, further igniting her passion for scientific discovery.
Art Programming Director at Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA
2016 & 2017
Managed and directed four creative art programmes, leading a team of 15-20 staff members. Oversaw the departmental budget, managing materials orders, and ensuring the wellbeing of both staff and campers.
April designed and implemented engaging lesson plans, providing daily pottery lessons to over 300 children aged 7-15. Her ability to create dynamic, age-appropriate content while fostering a positive and supportive learning environment was key to the success of the programmes. This experience strengthened her leadership, communication, and organisational skills, and deepened her passion for creativity and teaching.
Healthcare Advisor at McCabes Pharmacy
2014 - 2017 (Part-time)
April worked as a part-time Healthcare Advisor at McCabes Pharmacy, where her responsibilities included dispensing over-the-counter medications, providing customer assistance, and recommending treatments for common ailments. She also offered detailed information on dosages and proper usage, ensuring customers received the best possible care and advice. This experience enhanced her communication skills and her ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.