Meet The Team

Jenin is a former undergraduate Biochemistry student at the University of Manchester. In the course of her degree, she worked at Dr. Raymond O’keefe’s lab, where she studied potential causes of Perrault Syndrome using live patient cells. During this period, she also worked as a Media & Communications Officer for the NWBI, where she developed a strong interest for communications within Biosciences.  She has since moved on to pursue an MSc in Biochemistry at the university, where she hopes to continue researching diseases with the aims of developing a career in medical sales and marketing. Jenin is excited to contribute to the NWBI as a co-chair, hoping to continue providing students in the North-West with a range of opportunities to explore careers within the bioscience industry. In her spare time, Jenin likes to read and go on morning runs.

Tatenda is a final year undergraduate Biochemistry student at the University of Manchester. Alongside his degree, he volunteers with the North West Air Ambulance, where he supports frontline operations and data handling for service evaluation. His key academic interests lie in pharmacology and translational therapeutics (he’s done an internship in the summer working on the characterisation of Free Fatty Acid Receptor 4 variants). Tatenda first joined the North West Biotech Initiative as an Operations Executive, where he contributed to the planning and delivery of several key events. Through this experience, he developed a strong appreciation for the role of student-led organisations in building bridges between academia and the biotech sector. Tatenda is excited to contribute to NWBI as Co-Chair, with the aim of expanding its reach, strengthening cross-industry collaboration, and creating inclusive opportunities for students across the North West to explore careers in the life sciences.

Vika is a third-year Biochemistry student at the University of Manchester. She is currently on her placement at AstraZeneca Discovery Science HTS Department. Her main academic interests are neuropharmacology and computational neuroscience. Outside academics, she actively participates in University life. As a PASS leader, she provides peer-assisted learning support to help fellow students succeed. Additionally, she serves as a Student Ambassador, engaging with prospective students and representing the university at events. She is excited to continue being part of the NWBI team, further enriching her academic journey through collaboration and innovation. In her free time, she is either making obscure cups from clay, drinking cherry Dr. Pepper or playing sims.

Matias is a recent graduate in Neuroscience with Entrepreneurship with a burning passion for learning, bringing people together, and creating value through his interest in Biotechnology. He spent his placement year in L’Aquila University, where he worked along with supervisors in cognitive psychology to produce a visual-audio paradigm for eye-tracking studies of moral decision making and co-authored his first publication. His final year project examined microRNAs during spinal cord regeneration in Zebrafish (71% genetically similar to humans!) with Ximena Soto. During this time, he rediscovered his interest in biotechnology, and he currently researches frontier biotechnological solutions to bioremediation, with a focus on methanogenic metabolic pathways. He now returns to Manchester to study a Masters in Biotechnology with Enterprise, and brings passion for biology wherever he goes. As one of the Finance Managers at NWBI, he looks forward to further expanding NWBI’s reach and cultivating its current partnerships by communicating its value nonstop. Apart from studies, he devotes a lot of his time to develop Manchester’s first Food and Networking Society with Jenin, plays (and teaches) the piano, and can be seen cycling up and down Oxford Road like a mad-man…

Jingjing is a second year PhD medical student at the University of Manchester with both hospital and financial experience. Her research focuses on heart modeling, and she is deeply interested in translational medicine as well as healthcare-related finance. As a finance manager at NWBI, she is enthusiastic about contributing to the society by supporting members and sponsors and fostering effective communication with partner groups. She is committed to building a platform that provides diverse opportunities for students’ career development. Beyond her academic work, Jingjing is passionate about art and human connections. You may find her at an exhibition, in the singing rehearsal, or enjoying conversations around a table.

Ilona is currently pursuing an MSc in Biotechnology and Enterprise at the University of Manchester, having recently completed a BSc in Biochemistry at the same institution. During her undergraduate dissertation, she took part in the Life Science and Enterprise course, developing the design and commercialisation strategy for a theoretical ovarian cancer diagnostic tool that combined the established biomarker CA-125 with emerging biomarkers KLK6 and KLK7. As Media and Communications Officer, Ilona is enthusiastic about supporting NWBI’s mission and helping foster a collaborative environment where students can explore the wide-ranging career opportunities in life sciences. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, she enjoys cooking, travelling, and spending time with friends and family.

Charlotte is a BSc Biotechnology with Industrial Experience student at the University of Manchester, currently in her second year. With research internships in cancer epigenetics and rare disease genetics, she has built a broad skillset ranging from molecular techniques such as PCR, qPCR, and RNA analysis to bioinformatics and critical journal evaluation. Her academic journey has shaped a strong curiosity about how cutting-edge molecular biology can be translated into solutions for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. As Media and Communications Officer for the North West Biotech Initiative, Charlotte brings both scientific insight and creativity, aiming to make complex topics accessible and engaging for a wide audience. She is particularly motivated to highlight diverse pathways within the life sciences, connecting students to opportunities beyond the laboratory. Outside her studies, Charlotte enjoys classical piano, competing in volleyball, and discovering new cultural experiences.

Win is a final year undergraduate Molecular Biology student at The University of Manchester. Her academic interest lies in gene regulation and disease mechanisms, with the aim of developing a career in diagnostics and/or therapeutics. During her second year, she volunteered for science outreach at the Science and Industry Museum where she developed interest for science communications. Win is also a PASS leader who facilitates peer-assisted study sessions, providing students with support for both academic and non-academic needs. Win is excited to contribute to the NWBI as Media and Communications Manager, looking forward to helping students explore opportunities beyond the lab within Biosciences. In her spare times, Win enjoys sleeping, cooking and eating different cuisines.

Amna is a third-year MSci Genetics student at the University of Manchester. Her academic focus is on the intersection of cancer genetics and developmental biology, with a particular fascination in how these advances can deepen the understanding of disease mechanisms and the development of new therapies. Alongside her academics, Amna works with Shout, where she supports individuals in moments of crisis. This role has strengthened her skills in clear communication, quick problem-solving, adaptability and resilience. As one of the Media and Communications Officers, she is delighted to create engaging content and build meaningful connections to support NWBI’s vision. In her free time, she enjoys dancing and discovering hidden gems around the city.

Eve is a Final-year Genetics student at the University of Manchester with an interest in Genomics, Bioinformatics and the application of these to healthcare and treatment. She has recently spent time at St Mary’s Hospital in the centre of Genomic Medicine with the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, carrying out research on CRISPR/Cas9 edited cells and their unexpected responses to their environment Alongside her studies she is the acting social secretary of the university Darts society and was also treasurer for the Genetics Society during her second year. Returning for her second year as an Operations manager for NWBI, Eve is excited to continue to provide a platform for making new connections and networking amongst individuals with similar interests.

Mikhail is a second-year BSc Biomedical Sciences with Industrial Experience student at the University of Manchester. He is particularly interested in the pharmaceutical industry and drug development, with a growing focus on applying data analysis to biomedical research. He is especially fascinated by how insights from biomedical data can inform better strategies for drug discovery and development. As Operations Manager for the North West Biotech Initiative, Mikhail is committed to ensuring the smooth delivery of events and initiatives that connect students with opportunities across academia and industry. Through this role, he aims to help foster a community where students can explore diverse career paths and engage with the latest developments in life sciences. Outside of his studies and organisational work, Mikhail enjoys film photography, cycling, and a cappella singing.

Lina is a final year BSc Optometry student with a strong interest in biotech and healthcare consulting. After achieving runner up at NWBI’s 2024 Consulting Case Competition, she developed a passion for exploring the intersection of business and STEM. As one of NWBI’s Operations Managers, Lina brings leadership experience as Deputy Head Girl, Head of Charities & Partnerships, and Assistant Brand Manager of a health blog where Lina has developed strong skills in strategy, organisation, and collaboration. At NWBI, she will focus on event coordination, and fostering member growth and engagement. Outside of clinics Lina loves trying new food spots and work out classes in Manchester - it’s all about balance

Murat is a second-year BSc Neuroscience with Industrial Experience student at the University of Manchester. He is particularly interested in neurointerfaces and how emerging technologies can be applied to better understand brain function, altered states of consciousness, and their potential impact on mental health. With a growing curiosity for data science and artificial intelligence, Murat is eager to explore how analytical tools can be integrated into neuroscience and pharmacology to drive innovation in research and clinical applications. As Operations Manager for the North West Biotech Initiative, Murat is committed to fostering stronger connections with students from biomedical and related disciplines, helping to promote collaboration, skill-sharing, and engagement with new opportunities across academia and industry. In his free time, Murat enjoys singing, finding it both relaxing and enjoyable.

Alice is a final year BSc Genetics student at the University of Manchester. She is particularly interested in embryology as well as the causes of hereditary genetic diseases, how these can affect people’s lives and therapies that may help. As well as her academic focuses, Alice works with Epilepsy Action as a Befriender and Action Team volunteer. This is a charity close to her, due to their support with her own condition. This has helped her with communication, safeguarding and understanding GDPR. As one of the Operations Managers, she is excited to contribute to NWBI, providing students with new opportunities and connections with industry and academia. In her free time, Alice enjoys ice skating, walking, the gym, and finding the best pizza in Manchester.

Tom is studying MSc Biotechnology and Enterprise having completed his undergraduate degree at Manchester. His final year project involved designing pathways for the production of petrochemicals in six industrially relevant bacteria species. He is particularly interested in applying sustainable bioengineering approaches to problems in health and agriculture. As Operations Manager at the NWBI he is keen to get involved, especially in the flagship Build-a-Biotech competition! Outside university he enjoys swimming and reading.

Himakshi is a Medical Biochemistry graduate and is currently pursuing an MSc in Infection Biology at the University of Manchester. She is passionate about the future of personalised medicine and therapy, as well as how it can be applied from research into pharmaceuticals especially for female reproductive health and infectious diseases. During her undergraduate studies, her work at the Buckley Lab, across Manchester and Cambridge University, focused on primary ciliogenesis in Zebrafish secondary neurulation. Additionally, she is part of the BioSci Future Leaders mentorship programme for 2025-26. As an Operations Manager at NWBI, she aims to bridge the gap between students and the various opportunities available for them across academia and industry. Outside of academic interests, Himakshi enjoys reading manga and cooking different recipes to feed all her friends or can be seen cafe-hopping across Manchester.

Ruth is a third-year Biochemistry student at the University of Manchester currently on placement. Her main academic interests revolve around computational models of development, though she has also grown an appreciation for immunology through her previous internship work and her placement project. As an operations manager and an individual captivated by the biotech space, she is motivated to ensure all NWBI events are well-run and inviting to everyone. She truly believes in the initiative’s ethos and intends on providing an opportunity for students to interface with people and companies in Biotech. When she is not busy in the lab, you will find her playing tennis or guitar, writing about movies she loves, and taking walks through the park.

Sinan is a final-year BSc Biochemistry student at the University of Manchester with a strong interest in ageing and regenerative medicine. His academic focus lies in understanding how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the ageing process and age-related diseases, as well as exploring the potential of stem cells in tissue repair and regeneration. Alongside his studies, he has been a PASS Leader, supporting first-year students and developing skills in facilitation, teamwork, and mentoring. As Operations Manager for the North West Biotech Initiative, Sinan is committed to ensuring that events, projects, and student teams are effectively coordinated, while connections with industry partners are strengthened . He is also the Treasurer of the University of Manchester Photography Society, where he manages budgets and financial planning while supporting the organisation of creative projects, events, and exhibitions, gaining valuable experience in finance, teamwork, and leadership. In his free time, he enjoys nature, city, and landscape photography, as well as cricket and cooking.

Jeyapriya is a BBSRC DTP student at the University of Manchester, where she explores how physical and chemical cues guide stem cell differentiation. She also serves as a BBSRC DTP representative. Outside the lab, she loves staying active and curious, whether it’s through sports, games, hiking, traveling, reading, or learning a new musical instrument. She also enjoys organising events and connecting with people. Jeyapriya dreams of becoming an academic entrepreneur, turning research discoveries into real-world impact. As Operations Manager at the NWBI, she works to bridge academia with industry, facilitating the flow of ideas from the lab into practical applications.

Chantal is a final-year BSc Biotechnology student at the University of Manchester, where she volunteered in Dr. Norman van Rhijn’s lab, an experience that deepened her interest in infectious diseases and the development of novel treatments. With extensive experience in events planning, Chantal is excited to contribute to the NWBI as one of the Operations Managers. In this role, she hopes to help deliver engaging and insightful events that connect students with opportunities in the biosciences. In her free time, Chantal enjoys travelling, playing golf, and playing the piano.

Lucy is a first-year MRC DTP student in the Buckley lab at the University of Manchester. Lucy's research utilises novel in vivo optogenetic techniques to investigate the role of primary cilia during hollowing lumenogenesis in zebrafish. Having completed an MSc in Genes, Drugs and Stem Cells - Novel Therapies at Imperial College London, Lucy gained an interest in next-generation therapies and their translation from bench-to-bedside. In her free time, Lucy enjoys going for hikes, baking and painting.

Hamda is a Final Year MSci Molecular Biology student with an interest in scientific research, particularly in cancer sciences and genetics. Her curiosity for biology inspired her pursue Molecular Biology with the goal of contributing towards research. She completed a placement at Centre of Applied and Translational Genomics, an omics lab gaining experience in genomics, proteomics and transcriptomics. Beyond academia, she is also passionate about student support and guidance, and has served as a PASS leader. She is excited to continue with NWBI as an inclusion officer to help create an inclusive environment. She aims to ensure all students have access to opportunities in the biotech industry, giving them a platform to connect with experts and discover more about the field. In her free time she likes to go to the park and spend time with friends.

Isabelle is a third-year Bsc Biochemistry student at the University of Manchester, with a strong interest in endocrinology and immunology. She is eager to pursue a career in the medical healthcare communications sector following recent work experience at Havas Lynx, a top 3 global healthcare agency. Outside her studies, Isabelle enjoys health and fitness, reading New Scientist articles, and attending music events. As an operations manager for the NWBI, Isabelle is excited to help students connect and gain insights into different career paths. She also wants to make sure all projects and competitions are successful and efficient.