Meet the WiNUK Team
Founder
Elizabeth English 'Lizzie'
She/Her
Lizzie is a third-year PhD student at the University of Cambridge, characterising protein aggregates and their toxicity in Alzheimer's disease.
With a passion for science communication and equity, she established WiNUK to connect fellow women in neuroscience. Lizzie drives WiNUK to work together to catalyse change through facilitating conversations about gender bias and discrimination in scientific research and research cultures.
In her spare time, she enjoys engaging the public with science in person and on social media, and taking part in dance classes.
Advisor
Oluwatomi Akingbade'Tomi'
She/Her
Tomi is a third-year PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge, investigating inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.Â
Tomi's passion for equality and representation in science led her to create the Black Women in Science (BWiS) Network in 2018: a global networking platform giving Black women opportunities to further their careers/interests in science.
Secretarial Team
Schedule Manager
Meg Marston
She/Her
Meg Marston is a second year Neuroscience student at the University of Leeds, with a keen interest in neuroinflammation, and the role of non-neuronal cells in neurodegenerative diseases, in which she hopes to specialise in the future. She is also passionate about the possibility of advancing research into PMDD, a common yet misunderstood mood disorder which is currently underrepresented within research. Meg is excited to be part of WiNUK, where she can help amplify women’s voices in neuroscience and advocate for more inclusive research whilst being part of this impactful community. Outside of her studies, Meg is deeply passionate about world culture through travel and literature and is always looking to embark on new adventures around the globe.
Secretary
Anna Margaret Jansson
She/Her
Anna is a recent MPhil from the Basic and Translational Neuroscience program at the University of Cambridge. A wet lab girly at heart, she is currently working on an assortment of neuroscience projects including characterizing monoamine G-protein coupled receptors in octopus (at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology) and exploring short-term synaptic plasticity in parvalbumin interneurons associated with mouse whisker reception (Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research).
Anna is passionate about contributing to a more equal environment for women in STEM through her past work in UW-Madison’s WISER (Women in Science Education and Research) and Undergraduate Neuroscience Society. She is excited to help make a difference in the UK and hopes that her lived experience as a midwestern American will benefit the organization.
Meetings Chair
Daisy Stringfellow
She/Her
Daisy is a BBSRC PhD student at the University of Nottingham. She has a particular interest in neuroinflammation and is currently studying neuroimmune changes in myotonic dystrophy and motor neurone disease. Through her experience in neuroscience, she appreciates the importance of advocacy and support for women in STEM fields. She is passionate about supporting education within and beyond the scientific community, about how important and amazing science is. She enjoys continuing this as a member of the WiNUK team.
Secretary Coordinator
Love Onwuzuruike
She/Her
Love is a 1st year PhD student studying Neuropharmacology in the department of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience at the University of Bristol.
Her research uses a combination of computational techniques/programming skills alongside wet lab experimental methods to study how the membrane shapes the pharmacology of serotonin receptors and how they respond to psychedelics.
Love is dedicated to supporting and uplifting underrepresented and minority groups in neuroscience and STEM. This led her to become an ambassador for the ‘Black in biomedical science initiative during her MSci. Striving to increase representation and create environments where underrepresented individuals can succeed and thrive, Love will be joining WiNUK as the Secretarial Team Coordinator.
Newsletter Coordinator
Giada Vanacore
She/Her
Giada is a Research Assistant at the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge. She has previous experience in the field of stem cells and neurogenesis in the adult brain. In her new role, she studies neonatal brain regeneration after acquired brain injury to identify the key mechanisms that could stimulate regeneration in the adult brain. She joined WiNUK to support women in STEM by offering them access to a network of neuroscientists but also, to encourage them to pursue a career in science.
Mailing List Manager
Hana Ajeti
She/Her
Hana is a third year Neuroscience student at the University of Bristol with academic interests in exploring psychedelic treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders and investigating the impact of sleep on mood and mental health. In her free time, she is a keen traveller and recently spent a month volunteering in a rural village in Western Fiji, promoting positive mental health by leading and facilitating important sessions with Fijian youth. Hana can't wait to use everything she has learnt to help contribute to WiNUK and encourage more young women to enter the exciting field of Neuroscience.
Newsletter Coordinator
Dana Visnitchi
She/Her
Dana recently graduated with an MSci in Neuroscience with Psychology and Industrial Placement from the University of Aberdeen. She has a strong interest in mood and neuropsychiatric disorders, as well as in treatment inequality. She hopes to use her knowledge to promote mental health, create a safe space for womxn in the field, and encourage young neuroscientists to pursue their ideal career, with a work-life balance. Dana will do all this and keep the WiNUK audience updated on what's going on through her new role as a newsletter co-director.
Progress Manager
Charlotte McGuinness
She/Her
Charlotte is a PhD student at the University of Southampton. Her research involves understanding the roles of microglia in chronic neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. She focuses on a particular protein of interest shown to have significant association with AD but which is heavily underrepresented in the literature. Charlotte is excited to work alongside so many empowering women as Subteam Coordinator. She hopes to contribute to the supportive and welcoming WiNUK network, enabling women to thrive in scientific research and beyond.
Partnerships & Sponsorships Team
Sponshorships and Partnerships Officers
Chloe Blackery
She/Her
Chloe is a first-year BBRSRC DTP-funded PhD student at University of Nottingham, having recently graduated from Univeristy of Leeds with an MBiol in Neuroscience. She is interested in all things neuroscience, but especially molecular neuroscience and neuropharmacology. Chloe is excited to have joined WiNUK to assist in aiding their mission to inspire, connect, and advocate for women and girls interested in neuroscience!
Outreach Officer
Kerry Gregory
She/Her
Sponsorships and Partners Officer
Abi Parsons
She/Her
Abi is a final year PhD student at the University of Plymouth. Her research interest is the development of cancer therapies with reduced side effects compared to traditional treatment options. Her PhD topic focuses on the optimisation of a non-invasive cancer treatment known as Tumour Treating Field therapy, which is used to treat aggressive brain cancers. She is passionate about supporting women who work in science and hopes to help WiNUK continue to do so by working as the Sponsorships and Grants officer.
Business Strategy Advisor
Charlotte Bell
She/Her
Charlotte is passionate about human performance and wants to empower and uplift those around her. She is excited to join WiNUK as a Business Strategy advisor, helping to expand its reach and impact. Charlotte holds a BSc in Economics from the University of Bath and began her career in Prime Brokerage at Morgan Stanley. After five years, she left to pursue her passion for human performance, focusing on better understanding the human brain. Charlotte graduated with an MSc in Psychology from the University of Hertfordshire as well as an MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience from University College London, where she explored the exciting impact of exercise on cognitive function and wellbeing. Charlotte now works as an applied cognitive neuroscientist, helping to transform the way adults learn new skills at the UK's largest Edtech company. Charlotte is also a passionate triathlete and coach for London Fields Triathlon Club, where is she is an advocate and supporter for women in sport. She looks forward to bringing her energy and passions to WiNUK.
Partnerships Lead
Storm Johnson
She/Her
Storm is currently in Business Development at a health-tech company supporting people with neurodegenerative disease to access genetic testing and treatments through clinical trials. Storm holds a BSc Hons in Biomedical Science from the University in Surrey and has previously worked in the NHS as well as in academic publishing. Storm has a passion for all things science, particularly neuroscience and genetics. She is an advocate for equity and representation of women and people from marginalised communities in scientific research and across STEM in wider public and private sectors. She enjoys collaborating with individuals, organisations and companies across the scientific landscape and engaging with the new generation of young women scientists to build a future where scientific education, work, research and healthcare is more equitable and inclusive.In her spare time she enjoys reading, spending time by the sea, arts and crafts, and exploring artistic and cultural exhibitions.
Human Resources Team
Onboarding
Ruta Cakla
She/Her
Wellbeing
Sofia Johnston
She/Her
Lead Interviewer
Amy Boyack
She/Her
Amy is a 2nd year PhD student at Newcastle University. Her research focuses on using neuropharmacological manipulations to identify the brain areas and pathways involved in decision making. She aims to gain a better understanding of the decision-making process to help inform the next generation of treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Passionate about diversity, equity and accessibility in neuroscience and STEM, Amy is a dedicated advocate for these causes. By joining the Human Resources team, she is eager to help expand the network with a diverse team to help drive the mission forward and empower women to thrive
Human Resources Administrator
Kristi Ulicna
She/Her
Kristi is a recent Biomedical Sciences graduate from Newcastle University, with interest in mechanisms of regulatory T cells in Multiple Sclerosis and immune-mediated therapies for neurodegenerative disorders.
She joined WiNUK because of her passion and dedication to career development and wanting to bring her experience as CV & Careers Adviser to the WiNUK HR subteam contributing to the recruitment of a dynamic and inclusive volunteers team.
In her spare time, she enjoys crocheting and embroidery while watching criminal tv series.
Human Resources Coordinator
Ciara McCready
She/Her
Ciara works in industry, specialising in medical devices for neurodevelopmental conditions. Ciara has experience managing professional research studies and in NHS-funded clinical trials. Ciara is particularly interested in studying manifestation of neurodevelopmental conditions in females. Ciara is looking forward to a career in public and patient involvement in scientific research, striving to make the research space more inclusive.
Ciara is excited to be a part of the supportive environment of WiNUK, and hopes to contribute to the mission of empowering women in STEM.
Website Team
Website Officer
Dwaynica Greaves
She/Her
Dwaynica Greaves is a Neuroaesthetician, Neuroscientist and Creative. She is a current PhD candidate on the Cognitive Neuroscience programme at University College London’s Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. She aims to investigate the neural and behavioural effects of theatre training on the sense of self and theory of mind of professional actors. Not only are Dwaynica's interdisciplinary interests evident in academia, but they are also reflected in her artistic endeavours and industry occupations.
Graphics & Design Team
Design Coordinator
Ginevra Sperandio
She/Her
Ginevra is a 3rd year PhD candidate in Neuroscience, working between Germany and France as part of a Marie Skodowska-Curie Actions European Joint doctorate. Her research is conducted on huge longitudinal datasets, and is focused on the role of childhood abuses and maltreatments as predictors of chronic pain and mood disorders. She is a convinced feminist and joined the WiNUK as an International Outreach Officer. Her aim is to build an international network of young women committed to Neuroscience research to promote the equality in the field, fighting the gender gap in authorships and positions, and to support new generation of female scientists in pursuing the research career.
Graphics Creator
Georgina Savastano
'Georgie'
She/Her
Georgie is a Neuroscience graduate of the University of Oxford. Her final year research project focused on the contributions of molecular chaperones to selective neuronal vulnerability in Alzheimer’s disease.
Georgie is passionate about increasing the access of underrepresented groups to higher education and STEM, and strives to make science more accessible and inclusive. She now works for the University of Oxford as an Outreach and Admissions Officer.
Graphics Creator: Social Media
Marleyna Zonde
She/Her
Marleyna is an aspiring neurosurgeon; she is currently a third year student who is studying neuroscience at the University of Sussex.
Marleyna is particularly interested in the topic 'Learning and Memory' and hopes that through her new role as social media graphic creator, she can ensure that the research being done in neuroscience can easily be understood through graphics and animations.
Graphics Creator: Newsletter and emails
Ananya Ramamurthy
She/Her
Ananya is currently a 2nd Year Neuroscience Student at Queen Mary University of London. She is particularly interested in the Neuroscience of Spirituality, specifically the impact of meditative practice in promoting positive neuroplasticity. In her role as a Graphics Creator at WiN UK, Ananya is excited to contribute her skills and creativity to an organisation that inspires and guides other young women in the field, just as it has guided her own journey.
Blog Illustrator
Lilly Green
She/Her
Lilly is studying neuroscience at the University of Edinburgh. She is currently in the third year of her undergraduate degree, where she is particularly interested in neuropharmacology and also tutors science to younger students. Driven by a personal connection to the field, Lilly is keen to research and raise awareness of neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders, and hopes her passion for science communication will aid her in this
Social Media Team
Video Editor
Riya Verma
She/Her
Riya is a recent Neuroscience graduate from the University of Warwick, with a specific interest in the understanding and treatments of neurodevelopmental disorders as well as the clinical applications of neuroplasticity surrounding injury or trauma to the brain.
She joined WiNUK because of her passion to ensure that there is female equality across STEM careers and to create a greater awareness for studying neuroscience at higher education amongst young individuals. In addition, she is excited to part of the WiNUK community and to work amongst like-minded, empowering women of all different career paths and specialisms.
In her free time, she enjoys baking sweet treats for her family and friends and going on long walks listening to her favourite self-help podcasts.
Social Media Coordinator
Abinayah John
She/Her
Abinayah is a third-year PhD student at the University of Cambridge. Her project aims to investigate the role of GABAergic interneuron dysfunction in the Mecp2-knockout model of Rett syndrome. By combining her passion for science, public engagement and gender equality, she created a personal blog where she continues to share her love for neuroscience. Having joined WiNUK, she hopes to create a space for women of all backgrounds to pursue a career in neuroscience.
Instagram Administrator
Rachel Grasmeder Allen
She/Her
Rachel is a third year BBSRC-funded PhD student at University of Nottingham. Her project aims to investigate hippocampal activity in cognition and behaviour, using in vivo models. She is a firm believer that science is, and should be, for everyone and hopes to help increase the diversity of people in science. She believes that we need to educate younger people early on about the opportunities that are available to them and encourage them to pursue degrees and careers in neuroscience. She also wants to help improve opportunities for women in neuroscience, particularly increasing the representation of women at the higher end of the ladder. She is passionate about science communication and public engagement, so joining WiNUK as Instagram admin seemed like the perfect fit. She is excited to be working with like-minded neuroscientists to promote equality in neuroscience and to help more women follow careers in neuroscience.
Twitter Administrator
Kimberly "Kim" Cheam
She/Her
Kimberly is a second year MRC-DTP-funded PhD student at University of Cambridge. Her project aims to use stem-cell derived models to understand the biology of tau spreading and aggregation in diseases. She joined WiNUK to contribute to this fantastic platform to promote and encourage women to empower other women scientists to improve, develop and build connections amongst each other. As an international student, she would also like to use WiNUK to allow other international students studying and working in neuroscience within the UK to meet and discuss any issue that they might face. She hope to do this through the use of the Twitter-sphere and connect like-minded neuroscientists across the UK together.
LinkedIn Administrator
Emily Wilson
She/Her
Emily is a research assistant at The University of Birmingham. Her current work explores diagnosis techniques, sensory processing and language processing in Autism using MEG, OPM and MRI. She has a master's degree from The University of Birmingham where she studied Brain Imaging and Cognitive Neuroscience. She is interested in using neuroimaging techniques to research neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Her current focus is to explore autism spectrum disorder in children using neuroimaging techniques such as MEG, EEG, fMRI and OPM. As a first-generation woman in STEM, she understand the struggles and hardships women may face when entering neuroscience. Emily Joined WiNUK to meet and support other women and show that everyone is welcome in neuroscience, regardless of their background. She hopes to help create a safe space for women to ask questions and encourage the younger generation to pursue an exciting career in neuroscience.
Senior Content Creator and Caption Developer
Katherine Mortimer
She/Her
Katherine is a second year BBSRC-funded PhD student at the University of Nottingham. Her research is centred around mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. As a neurodiverse student, Katherine is committed to sharing her experiences and raising awareness of neurodiversity, particularly amongst women in science. She is a passionate writer and speaker and is keen to encourage prospective students and future generations to pursue science and challenge the norm. As social media is at the forefront of public engagement, Katherine is excited to be joining the team of driven and like-minded individuals at WiN UK as a Senior Content Creator and to continue her journey to promote inclusivity in science.
Deputy Content Researcher
Marleigh Smith
She/Her
Marleigh is a second year BSc Neuroscience student at King's College London. Her main interests within the field are neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, she is interested in the intersection between women's health and neuroscience. Outside of her degree, Marleigh is the president of KCL's Womxn in Bioscience society, which aims to help womxn studying bioscience feel heard and included. Marleigh wanted to join WiNUK to contribute to creating a space for like-minding women wanting to advance their careers and engage with the other incredible women in this field! By being a content researcher for WiNUK, Marleigh hopes she can connect to others within this platform to help deliver relevant and thrilling content
Deputy Content Researcher
Marina Ramzy Mourid
She/Her
Marina is an MBBCh candidate at Alexandria University. She is an author, researcher, and medical writer with a primary focus on epilepsy, as reflected in her two related books. Additionally, she has a strong interest in neurodegenerative diseases and the use of artificial intelligence in this area. Marina aims to become a doctor-entrepreneur, finding both passion and business in writing books. Her goal is to globally raise awareness about neuroscience, emphasizing that knowledge is power in the field of medicine. Marina also loves connecting with people from different cultures and actively seeks research collaborations with individuals worldwide. She is delighted to be a Deputy Content Researcher at WINUK, where she looks forward to contributing to the success of this supportive and empowering platform for women in the neuroscience field worldwide
Content Researcher
Peehu Jain
She/Her
Peehu recently graduated and holds a MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Nottingham. Peehu has worked on several research projects such as using statistical tools to analyse EEG data to investigate visual memory and finding a relationship between post-stroke depression and cognitive impairment. Peehu has a strong interest in data analysis and hopes to use her skills for drug development or to build neuro-technology. As an international student she understands the difficulty in navigating a career in STEM as a woman and wants to help others build a career in neuroscience. Peehu realises the power of social media as a tool to make resources more accessible so she hopes to use her position as a Content Researcher to empower women within the field and inspire upcoming peers.
Content Strategist and Video Editor (Reality)
Neave Smith
She/Her
Neave is a second year BBSRC-funded PhD student at the University of Nottingham. Neave's research is investigating the impact of pre- and post-natal opioid exposure on the development of pain systems. When entering her postgraduate studies, she noticed that there was a limited online presence for PhD students sharing their experiences. Neave is co-creator of the Tiktok channel @nottsneurogals, designed to share and actively promote a healthy work-life balance for PhD students. TikTok and other social media platforms are becoming a powerful tool for reaching a wide audience, in and outside of academia. Neave believes these platforms are essential for increasing exposure of underrepresented groups in science. She is excited to carry out her role as Content Strategist and Video editor to share the realities of life as a woman in neuroscience.
TikTok administator and Video Editor
Beth Hunt
She/Her
Beth is a recent graduate with a BSc Neuroscience from Cardiff University. During her time at university she took a particular interest in neuropsychological disorders and neuropsychopharmacology with her final year research focussing on the use of NMDA-receptor channel blockers and other psychedelic substances for the treatment of MDD. Fascinated by the intricacies of the brain and its impact on everyday lives, Beth aims to increase awareness of the neuroscience field through her role as a TikTok admin and video editor at WiN UK. Her goal is to inspire women in the field and educate people on how neuroscience can be applied to enrich lives through engaging content.
Video Editor (WiNUK Events)
Cliodhna Hall
She/Her
Cliodhna is a third year BSc Natural Sciences student at the University of York specialising in Neuroscience. Her final year project focuses on developing the Four Mountains Test for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, which she hopes to continue researching as a graduate. With further interests in depression and memory, she has always had a love for studying neuroscience and the impact it has on people's lives, which is why she joined WiN UK to spread awareness of its importance! As a female student in a boy's sixth form with limited subject choices, she knows how hard it can be for women to find their path in science and hopes that by creating engaging content as Video Editor more women will feel inspired and valued within the neuroscience field.
Virtual & In-person Events Team
In-person Events Logistics Team
Karnika Gupta
She/Her
In-person Events Logistics Team
Tracy Chong
She/Her
Tracy is currently a third year BSc Neuroscience and Psychology student at King’s College London. She is particularly interested in computational neuroscience and neuroplasticity, with a current focus in improving algorithms for neuroimaging. Hoping to pursue a career in research and inspire people along this journey, she is thrilled to be part of WiNUK. She is deeply passionate in inspiring more girls and women to pursue neuroscience. Combined with her beliefs in gender equity in research, she aims to support WiNUK’s mission through organising fun and informative in-person events! In her free-time, she likes playing the guitar and belting out to musicals.
In-person Events Impact Evaluator
Bethany Watkinson
She/Her
In-person Events Engagement Specialist
Shauna Angell
She/Her
Shauna is currently an MRes Translational Neuroscience student at UCL. She has a keen interest in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those affecting movement such as Parkinson's and Huntington's.
Shauna joined WiNUK as she is passionate about connecting and inspiring women in neuroscience, particularly other students from widening participation backgrounds. She hopes that increasing female representation will lead to more credible and inclusive research. In her spare time, Shauna enjoys yoga, live music and long walks with her cocker spaniel.
In-person Events Creative Directior
Jaimee Kennedy
She/Her
In-Person Events Social Security
Alejandra Rebollar
She/Her
In-person Events Deputy Coordinator
Sakaorna Jeyanathan
She/Her
Virtual Events Promotion
Kimran Chahal
She/Her
Virtual Events Host
Lucy Griffin
She/Her
Virtual Events Officer
Nada Salah
She/Her
Nada recently earned her BSc in Biomedical and Bioinformatics Engineering from Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology. She is interested in the computational aspect of neuroscience. Her current focus lies in Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) where she has worked on several projects tackling neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and Epilepsy. She aims to develop innovative models and enhance neurotechnologies to address neurological disorders. She is also dedicated to promoting women in STEM by organizing events and fostering collaboration within the neuroscience community. In her free time, she enjoys long walks, volleyball, and reading/drawing Manga!
Virtual Events Coordinator
Anwesha Chakraborty
She/Her
Anwesha is a masters student at the University of Nottingham studying Cognitive Neuroscience. Her research interests lie in neurodegenerative disorders, memory, decision-making and exploring neural dynamics in age-related disorders. Anwesha's journey is driven by a passion to spread awareness about neurological conditions. She joins the WiN Virtual Events Team to connect with a diverse and vibrant network of inspiring women dedicated to neuroscience. Being a strong advocate for women in science, she aims to empower and encourage more women to carve their niche in neuroscience and related fields.
Virtual Events Officer
Aarushi Vaidya
She/Her
Aarushi is a first year PhD student at the University of East Anglia. She is developing 2D and 3D models of holoprosencephaly (HPE) using human iPSCs. Aarushi is Neuroscience BSc (University of Nottingham) and Neuroscience and Translational Medicine MSc (Queen Mary University of London) graduate. Aarushi wants to raise awareness for Neuroscience related opportunities targeted for students and early researchers through WiN UK. She has strong experience in organising virtual Neuroscience events and collaborating with external speakers during her MSc degree.
Virtual Events Officer
Shloka Dhareshwar
She/Her
Shloka is a third-year undergraduate student in Neuroscience at Cardiff University. Her current interests revolve around speech pathology in neurodegenerative diseases. She aims to use her passion for communication and graphics in her roles.
Her primary goal in WiNUK is to provide exposure and opportunities to students in undergrad biosciences by planning and hosting talks or events that shed light on the clinical aspect of this subject. She is very much looking forward to getting mentored by every member of the team!
Virtual Events Officer
Sirjan Chhatwal
She/Her
Sirjan is a PhD student in neurosciences at the University of Wyoming, U.S.A. She is interested in investigating mechanisms underlying neuronal dysfunction, atrophy in systemic diseases that have manifestations in the visual system. With a keen interest in active clinical and translational neurobiological research, she is passionate about exploring the role of small-molecule based therapeutics for treating neuro ophthalmic disorders.
In addition, she is actively involved in communication of research outputs in science to both niche and lay audiences in an engaging manner. In her spare time she loves to travel, read science-fiction and go hiking. Having joined WiN UK, she is passionate about contributing towards reducing gender disparities in STEM and making science accessible.
Virtual Events Officer
Lakshaa Srishankar
She/Her
Lakshaa is currently a 2nd year Neuroscience Student at Queen Mary University of London. Some of her academic interests included the gut-brain axis and how the distribution of the microbiome has a potential effect on mental health disorders. She has also gained a new liking in Genetics at University and is looking forward to learning the role of genetics in Neurodevelopment. Lakshaa is looking forward to contributing to WiN in her role as Virtual Events Officer; encouraging, finding and working alongside like-minded individuals in the rapidly growing world of Neuroscience.
Virtual Events Officer
Ayesha Sherif
She/Her
Ayesha is a recent graduate with an MSc in Neuropharmacology from Nottingham Trent University, brings a passion for neuroscience and a dedication to raising awareness about neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. With a focus on disease modelling and understanding the aetiology of such conditions, Ayesha is committed to increasing public access to treatment options and prognosis information related to dementia. Driven by a desire to support and empower women in neuroscience, Ayesha aims to create a safe and inclusive space for female neuroscientists. In her role as a Virtual Events Officer, Ayesha is eager to utilize her skills to contribute to the organization and coordination of virtual events. She aims to foster engaging scientific conversations and promote collaboration among women neuroscientists through her position with WiNUK.
Virtual Events Impact Officer
Mahnoor Khalid
She/Her
Mahnoor has a BSc in Neuroscience with Psychology from the University of Aberdeen and a MSc in Integrative Neuroscience from the University of Edinburgh. Following this, she joined Randox Health as a scientific consultant. Her academic interests include neuropsychiatric disorders & neuroendocrinology. She has always been passionate about creating more opportunities and inspiring women in neuroscience, and is excited to achieve this through her role as a virtual impact evaluator with WiN.
In-person Events Coordinator
Becky Csöndör
She/Her
Becky is a PhD candidate working between University College London and the Rosalind Franklin Institute. Here, she aims to investigate the interplay between protein aggregation in dementia and synaptic dysfunction by developing novel workflows for correlative light and electron microscopy.Through joining WiNUK, Becky hopes to connect and collaborate with other talented scientists to create events that inspire women and girls to explore opportunities within neuroscience. With a passion for innovation and creativity alongside previous events management experience, she believes WiNUK is the perfect platform for utilising her skillset to promote inclusivity and equality across all disciplines within the neuroscience landscape.
Blog Team
Blog Coordinator & Blog Editor: Reality
Rebecca Pope
She/Her
Rebecca is a third year Neuroscience PhD candidate at the University of Nottingham, investigating the inflammatory mechanisms involved in chronic pain. Rebecca has always been very keen to encourage, support and network with other women in STEM careers, and has been involved in outreach activities for several years, including participating in, and leading, the Neuroscience Pint of Science team in Nottingham. She is incredibly passionate about equality and the provision of support for anyone to pursue STEM, whether through mentorship or enthusing about science! She regularly interacts with neuroscience undergraduates and is enthusiastic about encouraging them to pursue a career in science. By working both as Blog Coordinator and Editor, Rebecca aims to ensure that Neuroscience is fun, interesting and more accessible for everyone. She can't wait to work alongside other like-minded and passionate women!
Blog Editor: Research
Julia Dabrowska
She/Her
Julia is a current Interdisciplinary Bioscience DTP student at the University of Oxford, with a focus on neuroscience. Her interests include memory, attention, neuropharmacology and psycholinguistics. Passionate about scientific writing and sharing her experiences, Julia also holds the position of Science Editor in her university newspaper, and likes to swim, row and travel in her free time.
Blog Editor: Reality
Lauren Wallis
She/Her
Lauren recently graduated from MSc Neuroscience at King's College London after completing a research project deciphering novel neuroprotective strategies for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Her interests include elucidating the pathological mechanisms behind the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, and developing novel therapeutic interventions. At present, Lauren is working as a Chief Science Communications and Engagement Officer at St George's University London.
After hearing about WiNUK, she applied for a position as Resident Blog Writer to develop her written communication skills, continue researching neuroscience topics, and connect with a community of like-minded science enthusiasts.
Resident Blog Writer: Research
Rebecca Parker
She/Her
Rebecca is a 3rd year undergraduate student in neuroscience at Cardiff University. She is currently undertaking a placement at CUBRIC as a research assistant. Her interests lie in neurodegenerative diseases and looking at novel approaches to improve the lives of people affected by this. Rebecca joined WiNUK after falling in love with the idea of promoting neuroscience to women all around the world. She believes science should be accessible for everyone, however it often seems difficult to pursue and pathways to neuroscience are mostly never mentioned. Her hope is that she can promote opportunities and educate women in order to increase female representation within the field. Rebecca is very passionate about equal representation and scientific writing and is excited to work with other neuroscientists.
Resident Blog Writer: Reality
Rachel Mckeown
She/Her
Rachel is a fourth year PhD student in developmental neuroscience at the University of Cambridge, originally from Wales. She studies how the physical properties of brain tissue affect how neurons are guided through the developing brain, making sure they form accurate connections. As a former guest contributor to the WiN blog, she is really excited to further her contributions and connect with like-minded and empowering female scientists. She deeply values being part of an inclusive and supportive network of fellow scientists, which should be the case in every corner of scientific research. Her love of sharing enthusiasm and passion for incredible research is what motivates her most, and science communication is the perfect way to do that.Rachel is also the President of Bluesci, the science communications society of the University of Cambridge. She oversees the team producing magazine and web content across all scientific fields and is a regular contributor on topics ranging from neuronal mapping to biological patterning. She also teaches first year students at her College, St Catharine's, which is where she fell in love with neuroscience as an undergraduate.In her free time she can often be found running, solving crosswords and trying out new recipes in the beautiful city of Cambridge she now calls home.
Past Volunteers
Adriana Zainurin
Ceri Ngai
Dr Emmanuelle Viré
Gemma Deegan
Ivy Zhu
Rachel Sellick
Ailie McWhinnie
Charlotte Qi
Ellie Short
Grace Pennelli
Madina Abubakar
Sona Seyidli
Ananya Shankar
Courtney Hillman
Emily Breese
Hannah Ginman-Makin
Monique Raranga
Yin Yuan
Interested in joining our team?
A new recruitment cycle is here!​
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If you would like to view the full description of any of these roles, please look out for our advert on social media or email womeninneuroscience.uk@gmail.com.​
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To apply, please complete this form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRI92cpXfGbPadT4J1NB5SLw61b64s0rR4X00uw06lAxZ-uw/viewform