My research focuses on the role of the tumour microenvironment (TME) in tumour progression and metastasis. I am particularly interested in one of its key cellular components, the tumour‑associated macrophages (TAMs). I investigate TAM plasticity, heterogeneity and recruitment to the TME, as well as how distinct TAM subsets evolve during tumour growth and metastatic dissemination. My aim is to identify and characterise tumour‑promoting TAM subsets for predictive and prognostic purposes and to evaluate their potential as therapeutic targets. I also study the diverse effects of cytokines, chemokines and inflammation within the TME. In addition, I am interested in employing 3D models of the TME, including bioprinted systems.

Earlier in my career, I investigated epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in tumour progression and dissemination, including the induction and regulation of EMT.

I supervise projects that investigate how the tumour microenvironment influences tumour growth and metastasis and how it responds to anti‑cancer therapies. These projects focus on interactions between tumour cells and tumour‑associated macrophages (TAMs), examining macrophage heterogeneity and the emergence of distinct subpopulations during tumour progression and antineoplastic treatment. Pro‑tumoural macrophage subsets are identified and characterised for their potential as therapeutic targets.

My current projects explore TAM plasticity and targeting in various 3D models of the tumour microenvironment, with a particular focus on triple‑negative breast cancer and non‑small cell lung cancer.

My academic career has taken me to universities in several countries, where I adopted a range of teaching approaches. At the University of Oxford, I completed two teaching courses focused on interactive and student‑centred learning. At the University of Brighton, I incorporated a variety of digital technologies into my teaching. I hold Fellowship of Advance HE, awarded through the University of Brighton’s accredited CPD scheme.

I value research‑informed teaching and use a blended approach that combines lecture‑theatre delivery with virtual learning environments.

I am Associate Course Leader for the Biomedical Science BSc and MSci courses. As External Examiner, I provide independent oversight of academic standards and assessment quality for an undergraduate Biomedical Science course. My current teaching includes Cellular Pathology (as module leader), Cancer Biology and Immunopharmacology, delivered across the undergraduate and postgraduate Biomedical Science and Biological Sciences programmes, and to medical students.

I am the initiator and lead organiser of the biannual Brighton Tumour Microenvironment Conference which focuses on ECM and stromal–immune interactions, TAMs, TME‑mediated therapy resistance, and therapeutic targeting of the TME.