We welcome back Jonny Lock to our team after his previous stint working on the BSR-PsA study from 2019-2021. He joins us as an Assistant Study Coordinator on the UKAR and PIOKNEER studies.
Tell us a bit about yourself
My educational background is a Msc in Control of Infectious Diseases from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical medicine, and I’ve been lucky to do work, epidemiological or otherwise, all around the world. This is my second time working with the Epidemiology Group, having previously worked on the BSR-PsA study until this role was disrupted by the COVID pandemic in 2020. I then spent two years working to develop the environmental COVID surveillance program at Queen's University Belfast. I’ve recently returned from a two-year spell teaching English in Busan, Korea, and am very keen to re-enter the world of public health research.
What will you be investigating while you are in Aberdeen?
I will be helping to coordinate two studies within the group: the UK Antimicrobial Registry (UKAR), which is a large-scale epidemiological register which seeks to examine antibiotic resistance in the UK, and PIOKNEER, a new study which seeks to identify the onset of knee osteoarthritis from an early stage to improve people’s treatment outcomes.
Why did you choose Aberdeen?
Aberdeen has a lot to recommend itself for me. Having left Aberdeen before I had a chance to see everything it has to offer last time, I’m excited to return and keep exploring! As someone who loves outdoor activities, proximity to the Cairngorms and great running routes along the coast are something I’m keen to return to. The department's work environment was also a strong motivating factor for me to come back. Also; superior tap water!
Are you involved in any other research?
For now, I’ll be focusing on the two studies above, but I’m always keen to get involved in more! In particular, I’d love to expand my data analysis skills and work on any media creation for the department.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I’m an avid runner, and have competed in many events including several marathons, and will be training for my second ultramarathon next year. I’m also a big ice hockey fan and try to follow the Belfast Giants whenever I can!