Profile
Lisa Russell
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About Me:
I live in Newcastle-upon-Tyne with my husband and two young boys. We love to be outdoors as a family either walking or riding our bikes. I have an allotment and love to grow fruit and veg.
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I am originally from the south coast of England and moved to Newcastle in 2008 to pursue my career in science. I love my job and the team who I work with.
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My pronouns are:
she/her
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My Work:
I am a cancer research group leader. My group aim to improve the outcome for people diagnosed with a blood cancer called leukaemia. We do this by investigating how changes to the genetic code cause healthy cells to become cancer cells.
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I lead a team of scientists who want to make a difference to the lives of people diagnosed with leukaemia. My job is really varied, from designing experiments, teaching university students, managing a budget and travelling the world to work with other scientists.
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My Typical Day:
I am an early riser, 5.30am! After breakfast and getting my boys ready for school, I ride my bike to work. I usually start my working day at 8am with a cup of tea! In the mornings (when I work best) I concentrate on my research and break for lunch at 12pm with my team and other colleagues. In the afternoon I am answering emails, meeting my team, or teaching. I head home between 4.30 and 5pm where I am usually heading to football or cycling training with my boys.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
Run an open day for students to attend where I work and see what it is like to be a cancer research scientist.
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Education:
Claverham Community College – Battle, East Sussex – GCSE’s
Bexhill College, Bexhill, East Sussex – A’levels
The University of Southampton, Southampton – BSc
The University of Southampton, Southampton – PhD
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Qualifications:
9 GCSE’s – A and B
3 A ‘levels – BBD
Upper second class (2:1) degree in Biology
PhD in leukaemia genetics
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Work History:
Postdoctoral fellow – The University of Southampton – 2007-2008
Research Associate – Newcastle University – 2008-2011
Research Fellow – Newcastle University – 2011-2019
Lecture – 2019-2022
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Current Job:
Senior Lecturer in Childhood Cancer and Haematology – 2022 – present
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Employer:
Newcastle University
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My Interview
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What did you want to be after you left school?
Marine Biologist
Were you ever in trouble at school?
No!
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
To run my own craft shop
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Adele
What's your favourite food?
Cottage pie
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
More time with my kids. More holidays abroad. A crafting studio at home!
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