ABOUT ME

Brief Bio

I am an Analytical Chemist with a strong background in LA-ICP-MS, ICP-MS and HPLC (Ultra Violet, Refractive Index and fluorescence). My research is often industry based to help New Zealand companies solve problems. I have a long-held interest in the Manuka honey field and have been involved in various areas of honey research throughout my tertiary studies and industry employment, including the isolation of the unique antibacterial factor and the kinetic rate of its formation. I have published research on elemental fingerprinting and spatial mapping in automotive glass for forensic purposes using LA-ICP-MS. My current research focuses include trace element analysis of honey to identify country of origin, detection of metals in the environment, bees and bee-related products, and elemental imaging of bee brains. Prior to starting at the University of Waikato in 2017, I set up an IANZ-accredited ICP-MS suite and held roles of Technologist, Team Leader and Operations Manager in a commercial laboratory.