Dr Wendy Pickford

Biography

1991 – 1995 BSc 1^st Class Hons in Health Sciences; Human Nutrition and Metabolism (The University of Aberdeen).

1995 – 1996 MSc Human Nutrition and Metabolism (The University of Aberdeen). Research project measuring anti-nutrients (lectins and enzyme inhibitors in 3^rd world ration feeds (The Rowett Research Institute). Funded by the MRC.

1996 - 2000 PhD Novel Moraceae lectins and their interactions with intestinal and lymphoid cell surfaces through their specific carbohydrate binding properties (The University of Aberdeen & The Rowett Research Institute, Aberdeen).

2019 - ILM Level 5 Leadership and Management 

2015 - ILM Level 3 Leadership and Management

Internal Memberships

 IMS Building Safety Adviser

IMS First Aider

Research Overview

After completing a BSc (first class hons) and then an MSc in Human Nutrition and Metabolism (project included anti-nutrients in 3^rd world ration feeds), I completed my PhD on novel Moraceaelectins and their interactions with intestinal and lymphoid cell surfaces through their specific carbohydrate binding properties. I have enjoyed 13 years as a research fellow where the focus of my research was on Regulatory T cells, Immuno-suppression and developing peptide therapies for use in diseases including Colorectal Cancer, Hodgkin’s disease, Bullous Pemphigoid, Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia and Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura. Latterly, my research involved assessing immune effects of red blood cell (RBC) uptake during blood transfusions with particular attention to glycomics analysis of the fine sugar changes on the RBC surfaces with age and storage. During this time I also enjoyed extra responsibilities such as being the Aberdeen Immunological Group treasurer and symposium organiser (regional group of the British Society for Immunology). I was the Aberdeen Fungal Group Laboratory Manager for 6 years. This was one of the largest research groups in the university and had consisted of up to 14 PI's and about 100 researchers. I am now delighted to be IMS Technical Team Leader and Technical Resource Officer.

Teaching Responsibilities

MSc and BSc Nutrition and Metabolism lectures on Anti-nutritional factors