Anna Cusick
Cheshire West and Chester,United Kingdom
Summary
PhD researcher in physics within biological systems, specialising in laboratory and analytical skills, with a strong belief in the value of making science accessible and impactful. Motivated and adaptable, with experience in protein purification, plasmid construction, and fluorescence spectroscopy, alongside a complementary skill set in data analysis and visualisation using Python, MATLAB, and other scientific software. Strong scientific writing abilities developed through producing a PhD thesis, research paper manuscripts, and technical reports. Developed strong science communication skills through conference presentations, workshops, and seminars, alongside mentoring MSc/PhD students and teaching undergraduates. Involved in coordinating collaborative research projects across interdisciplinary fields such as biology, physics, and chemistry, including an international research placement. Career goal: to apply these skills in a role that bridges research, education, and conservation, with a genuine passion for contributing to meaningful science that makes a difference.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work history
PhD Student
University of Surrey
Guildford, Surrey
09.2021 - Current
Currently undertaking a PhD in physics with biology. The project is centred around quantum interactions of light with fluorescent protein assemblies under physiological conditions. Involving the combination of physics and molecular biology to advance understanding of protein photophysics. Leading the project from experimental design through to data interpretation, with outcomes including international collaboration, conference presentations and scientific papers.
Undergraduate Demonstrator
University of Surrey
Guildford, Surrey
01.2022 - 12.2024
Delivered weekly tutorial and practical classes for undergraduate physics and mathematics modules. Guided students through problem-solving and data interpretation, marked assignments, and provided feedback to improve understanding and performance. Collaborated with academic staff to improve course delivery and content relevancy.
Mentor – PhD and Master Students Projects
University of Surrey
Guildford, Surrey
01.2022 - 12.2024
Supervised two undergraduate students through their dissertation projects, offering support in experimental design, data analysis, and dissertation writing, while fostering independent research skills. Also guided three first-year PhD students through protein spectroscopy measurements, data interpretation, and effective presentation of results.
Lab assistant
Swansea University
Swansea, West Glamorgan
01.2019 - 12.2019
Assisted in preparing teaching and research laboratories, including equipment setup, sample handling, and maintaining a clean, safe working environment.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - Physics
University of Surrey
09.2021 -
Master of Science - Physics
Swansea University
09.2015 - 06.2020
A-Levels - Physics, Mathematics, Theatre Studies
Neston High School
Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire 09.2013 - 06.2015
GCSEs - 10 GCSE's including English Language, Mathematics, and Triple Sciences
Neston High School
Cheshire West and Chester 09.2011 - 06.2013
Skills
Laboratory & Analytical Skills:
- Protein purification, plasmid construction, bacterial transformation & expression
- ELISA-style assays, reagent preparation, sample cataloguing
- Optical spectroscopy, fluorescence lifetime, absorbance & emission analysis,
- Design and assembly of optical systems for fluorescence detection; troubleshooting instrumentation
- Laboratory maintenance, risk assessments, safety protocols, freezer/sample management
Technical & Data Skills:
- Data analysis and visualisation using Python, MATLAB, Origin, Igor Pro and Mathematica
- Experience with scientific plotting, curve fitting, and statistical modelling
- Scientific writing: thesis, research papers, and technical reports
- Familiarity with LaTeX and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation and presentation
Science Communication & Engagement:
- Delivered oral and poster presentations at multiple scientific conferences
- Presented seminars and talks within the university and research groups
- Mentored and trained multiple MSc/PhD students in lab and data analysis techniques
- Demonstrated and taught undergraduate classes throughout the PhD
- Able to explain complex scientific concepts clearly to audiences with varying levels of expertise
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for public and academic audiences
Collaborative & Organisational Skills:
- Coordinated collaborative research projects with internal and external partners, including planning experimental timelines and supporting manuscript development
- Organised and delivered workshops within the university, fostering knowledge exchange and skill development
- Interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, physics, chemistry
- Completed an international research placement in Montana (USA) to conduct collaborative experiments on fluorescent proteins
- Experienced in working independently and within cross-functional research teams
Affiliations
Lifelong passion for working with animals and contributing to their welfare and conservation. Hands-on volunteer experience in tree planting, river clean-ups, and helping at a local fox shelter, including transporting injured or unwell foxes for treatment. Keen supporter of Women in STEM initiatives, actively engaging with organisations that promote diversity and inclusion, working with the Women of Our Time (WOOT) organisation.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Undergraduate Demonstrator
University of Surrey
01.2022 - 12.2024
Mentor – PhD and Master Students Projects
University of Surrey
01.2022 - 12.2024
PhD Student
University of Surrey
09.2021 - Current
Doctor of Philosophy - Physics
University of Surrey
09.2021 -
Lab assistant
Swansea University
01.2019 - 12.2019
Master of Science - Physics
Swansea University
09.2015 - 06.2020
A-Levels - Physics, Mathematics, Theatre Studies
Neston High School
09.2013 - 06.2015
GCSEs - 10 GCSE's including English Language, Mathematics, and Triple Sciences
Neston High School
09.2011 - 06.2013
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