Anna Coughlan
Newcastle Upon Tyne,Tyne and Wear
Summary
Chemistry PhD candidate specialising in polymer-based biomaterials, with expertise in protein design, recombinant protein engineering, and biophysical characterisation. Research focused on the development and analysis of protein polymers, including their assembly, stability, and material properties for biomaterials applications. Strong experimental background in chromatography-based purification, analytical techniques and evaluation of material stability. Extensive experience in experimental design, data analysis, and method optimisation within laboratory environments, with a proven record of research excellence, including multiple awarded projects. Skilled in SOP development, training researchers, and communicating complex scientific data clearly. Actively seeking applied roles in materials, coatings, or product development, where polymer and analytical expertise can contribute to research, testing, and new product innovation.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Laboratory Demonstrator
Newcastle University
Newcastle Upon Tyne
09.2024 - 06.2025
- Guided students in experimental techniques, safety protocols, and data interpretation, enhancing their practical skills.
- Adapted demonstration techniques for diverse learning styles, improving comprehension and engagement for all students.
- Communicated complex scientific concepts clearly.
- Assessed student performance, providing constructive feedback to support academic growth.
- Fostered a collaborative learning environment by encouraging peer reviews, group discussions, and promoting critical thinking.
- Attended the Introduction to Learning and Teaching course to enhance laboratory teaching skills.
Visitor Experience Assistant
Lakeland Arts
Windermere, Cumbria
06.2022 - 08.2023
Processor – COVID-19 Testing
Queen Elizabeth School
Kirkby Lonsdale, Lancashire
08.2021 - 09.2021
Cafe Barista
Low Sizergh Barn
Kendal, Cumbria
12.2018 - 09.2019
Shop Assistant
Low Sizergh Barn
Kendal, Cumbria
07.2017 - 12.2018
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - Chemistry (Biopolymers)
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne01-2026
Master of Chemistry - Chemistry
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne01-2023
A-Levels - Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology
Queen Elizabeth School
Kirkby Lonsdale01-2019
GCSEs -
Queen Elizabeth School
Kirkby Lonsdale01-2017
Skills
Protein & Biochemistry
- Fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC)
- Recombinant protein design, expression, and purification
- Tangential flow filtration (ultrafiltration) and dialysis
- SDS–PAGE, Western blotting, and Bradford assays
Biophysical & Analytical Techniques
- Circular dichroism (CD) (Far- and Near-UV/kinetic analysis)
- Differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) and thermal shift assays
- NMR and IR spectroscopy
- UV–Vis spectroscopy
Molecular Biology
- Molecular cloning and plasmid construction (restriction digestion, colony PCR, In-Fusion cloning)
- DNA extraction and purification
- Agarose gel electrophoresis
Laboratory Safety & Compliance
- Risk assessment and COSHH compliance
- Safe handling and disposal of biological samples, hazardous chemicals, and Category 2 (BSL-2) pathogens
- Aseptic technique and contamination control
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and laboratory safety protocols
Professional Skills
- Training and supervising junior PhD students and a senior research technician
- Experimental design and troubleshooting
- SOP writing and protocol optimisation
- Data analysis and scientific reporting
- Scientific communication and poster presentation
- Budget management and resource allocation
- Teamwork and time management
Familiar Techniques
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
- Cell viability assays
- Cell imaging and morphology
Certification
- Tony Gibbs Memorial Prize – Newcastle University (2023)
- Best Poster Prize – NU Chemistry & Alumni Research Symposium (2025)
- Best Poster Prize – SNESFest Conference (2024)
- The Excellence Prize – Highest Stage 2 Chemistry Marks (2021)
- School of Natural & Environmental Sciences Excellence Scholarship (2019)
- Elizabeth Scarr Memorial Award for Endeavour in Mathematics (2019)
- Huck Chemistry Award (2019)
- J L Johnson Award for Deputy Head Girl (2019)
Languages
English
First Language
Timeline
Laboratory Demonstrator
Newcastle University
09.2024 - 06.2025
Visitor Experience Assistant
Lakeland Arts
06.2022 - 08.2023
Processor – COVID-19 Testing
Queen Elizabeth School
08.2021 - 09.2021
Cafe Barista
Low Sizergh Barn
12.2018 - 09.2019
Shop Assistant
Low Sizergh Barn
07.2017 - 12.2018
Doctor of Philosophy - Chemistry (Biopolymers)
Newcastle University
Master of Chemistry - Chemistry
Newcastle University
A-Levels - Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology
Queen Elizabeth School
GCSEs -
Queen Elizabeth School