CSaP Policy Intern (January - April 2021)

PhD student, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham

Paul's research centres around elucidating the sexual cycle of certain moulds used in industrial biotechnology. Moulds are used for their ability to produce chemical metabolites such as antibiotics or even simply citric acid! This would provide a tool for strain improvement in these fungi, and may allow for increased production of metabolites of interest or even novel metabolites. Using molecular genetics and biochemical approaches, he is also able to explore the mechanisms that govern signalling and trigger and control fungal sexual development.

Paul holds a MSc in Biotechnology, BSc(Hons) in Biology, as well as a MEd and PGCE from his time as a secondary school science teacher.

Paul is passionate about scientific outreach, and has presented at several events such as 'Pint of Science' & the 'Nottingham Festival of Science and Curiosity' as well as organising for other researchers to talk about their work to branches of 'University for the 3rd Age (U3A)' across Nottinghamshire.

Beyond his studies and research, Paul is learning Spanish and loves to be active, particularly hiking, all the better if there are mushrooms and fungi to find and identify!