Small Cells, Big Discoveries: Uncovering the Power of Proteins and Metals

Fungal infections, like those caused by Candida albicans, are becoming a serious health concern, especially for people with weakened immune systems. These infections can be life-threatening, and the problem is getting worse due to antifungal resistance (AMR). Over time, fungi have adapted to survive existing treatments, making current antifungal drugs less effective and leaving doctors with fewer options.This talk will discuss the growing threat of drug-resistant fungal infections and how metal-based medicines could offer a new way to fight back. By harnessing the power of chemistry, we may be able to develop better treatments and stay ahead in the fight against fungal infections.

We know them bones need calcium, but so does every other cell in the body, cancer cells included. Cancer cells fight to survive, but they’re also under a lot of pressure. Could a little extra calcium push them over the edge?

(note for reader: I'm making a reference to this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wba6vJUXq1c which people who went to primary school in Ireland will recognise- I'll show it at the start of the talk too to warm up the crowd if possible!)

Translation is a highly regulated process in which mRNA is translated into protein. For this to happen, there are rules that must be followed to ensure that the protein is made correctly. My research is focused on understanding one group of cases where these rules are redefined to allow for alterations in protein synthesis.