Heather Walker

I run and maintain the Faculty of Science Mass Spectrometry Facility specialising in metabolomics. I initially worked within the department of Animal and Plant Sciences but recently the department has merged with the other 2 biology departments to form the new School of Biosciences. My role involves looking after a laboratory housing several mass spectrometers. The lab specialises in the analysis of metabolites and small molecules and I work with researchers across the University with projects ranging from plants to archaeological pottery to stick insect milk!

The thing I enjoy most about my role are the interactions with staff, students and researchers.

Dr Heather Walker

Mass Spectrometry Senior Technical Specialist in the School of Biosciences.

The role involves many tasks not just preparation and analysis of samples and interpretation of data but also contributing to research papers and grant proposals, experimental design, running (along with colleagues) a postgraduate training course on mass spectrometry. Key to my role is training students and staff in mass spectrometry techniques. I also work very closely with my colleague Dr Adelina E Acosta-Martin who is the Senior Technical Specialist for Mass Spectrometry specialising in proteins.

I studied Chemistry up to Masters level before embarking upon a career in analytical chemistry. I previously worked for a commercial company making mass spectrometers but really enjoyed the research side of the job so made my move into academic research over 15 years ago. During my time here at the University I was able to study part-time to obtain my PhD entitled "Direct Approaches to Metabolite Profiling using Mass Spectrometry" which I was awarded in 2014. This definitely helped me in my career to reach the next level.

The thing I enjoy most about my role are the interactions with staff, students and researchers. It's great being able to get involved in a wide range of different research projects. For example this week I am working with research groups looking at breast cancer cells, microbial growth in fuel and the regulation of potato tuber sprouting! This wide range of applications for mass spectrometry allows me to continually develop and think about new methods and approaches.

I also really enjoy helping students develop technical skills and knowledge in the laboratory and the icing on the cake is watching them graduate knowing that you have helped them on their journey.