Current job description?
I am working for the Scottish Association of Marine Science (www.sams.ac.uk) at the Dunstaffnage Marine Laboratory on the "Biosurfactant Discovery Project" In a nutshell, I am generating a library of marine bacteria that I am screening for the production of biosurfactants. I will be involved in determining which may be of potential use commercially and will be developing them further for this purpose.

Your strengths/weaknesses?
I'd probably say my strengths are research and to a degree teaching. UNSW was great in allowing PhD students to experience teaching, and this is one of other things that I picked up from UNSW and applied to the development of my career. On a broader note, I'd say I would have strengths in most areas as long as I practiced them continuously, otherwise they'd be my unconditional weaknesses!

Worst part of the job?
Definitely doing the washing and cleaning up after a busy week of research. But this is more than compensated by having a lunch break in the sun on the western highlands of Scotland next to a 12th century castle.

Best part of the job?
The lab is located in a beautiful setting. The people here are so nice and accommodating. The research I am conducting is in its initial stages but it has a lot of potential for exciting discoveries. I also love to travel on the SAMS research vessel out to the Isle of Lismore to take marine samples. It's a nice way to start the morning, particularly when we see a porpoise, dolphin, or whale on the way.

Strangest thing you've ever had to do?
During my 2 year stint as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Florida, I joined the Zoology department and drove up to St Augustine Alligator farm where I had to catch and wrestle alligators in order to take their blood samples, weigh and measure them. A National Geographic photographer was there shooting film of us, but I'm still waiting for the article to appear.

Role model?
I've had a few people pass me by in life that have certainly inspired and influenced me. If I had to write down a name it would have to be my parents who have always been there for me.

Career ethic?
Deciphering what I want to pursue in life and putting as much effort as possible to achieve my goals. I know that I've chosen well when I feel passion about the work that I'm doing.

Where will you be in 10-15 years time?
I hope to be a leader or director of an eminent research team with a wide interest in developing methods to solve some of the major environmental problems that exist today. Over the years I have accrued a list of novel ideas for which I am awaiting the right time and place to exercise. I also have an interest in the discovery of new biological agents for potential pharmaceutical uses.