Many people aren’t getting enough iron.  Women and children are most affected with 30% of women aged 15-49 and 40% of infants suffering from iron deficiency anaemia.

How we absorb iron from our diets

The shift to plant-based diets could make iron deficiency even more common.

Haem iron, which is present in meat is the most bioavailable source of iron, and its absorption is largely unaffected by other dietary components. However, plant foods contain non-haem iron. Non-haem iron is absorbed less readily by the body than haem iron, and the rate of absorption is influenced by other compounds in the diet that can block absorption.

However, certain microbes can break down these inhibitory compounds and could help the body absorb more iron from a plant-based diet.

My research will explore how common gut commensal microbes processes iron, aiming to improve our understanding of iron absorption in the gut and support the development of better iron supplements.

Exploring microbial metabolism and dietary iron

I’m researching how the gut microbiome interacts with dietary iron, focusing on the Bacteroidota phylum, gut microbes known for breaking down fibre and producing health-boosting short-chain fatty acids.

Working with Professor Mark Webber, I’ll use an advanced technique called TraDIS (Transposon-Directed Insertion-site Sequencing) to create genetic libraries for several Bacteroidota species. These libraries will help uncover genes involved in iron uptake and pave the way for deeper insights into how these microbes influence human health.

Becoming an independent scientist

My passion for science began at a young age with a natural curiosity to understand how things work. In school, I was drawn to all areas of science, eventually focusing on biochemistry, where my interest deepened further during my studies in the UK.

Each step along the way, my mentors inspired and encouraged me, solidifying my commitment to research and driving my desire to contribute to scientific discovery.

I applied for this fellowship to further develop my research expertise and take a meaningful step toward an independent academic career.

I found the fellowship application process much smoother this time, as it wasn’t my first experience. The support I received from my supervisors and other staff was invaluable, offering guidance and feedback that strengthened my application.

My advice to someone thinking of applying for a fellowship is to go for it—just start the application, as it really does get easier with each attempt. Seek feedback from peers and trusted mentors, as their input can be invaluable in strengthening your application. Don’t be discouraged; every application is a chance to learn and improve.

This Quadram Institute Early Career Fellowship allows me to deepen my knowledge, contribute to impactful research, and build the skills necessary to lead my own projects in the future. It’s an ideal path to grow as an independent scientist and make lasting contributions to my field.

I’m eager to collaborate with a diverse team of experts, enhancing my ability to communicate complex findings effectively.

I genuinely love talking about science, not just biology, and am always happy to chat, even if I might not seem approachable at first. Whether it’s exchanging ideas, sharing knowledge, or exploring new concepts, I’m always excited to dive into a great scientific conversation.

Overall I aim to grow as a scientist and advocate for improved health solutions.