Vaccinia virus is the model poxvirus, the most infamous pox being variola virus (the causative agent of smallpox). The Mercer Lab uses a combination of molecular, cellular, and virological techniques to investigate the complex interactions that occur between poxviruses and their host cells during infection.
My PhD project involves investigating cellular factors and mechanisms that are involved in vaccinia virus genome uncoating, and new virion assembly during the infectious life cycle. I also previously conducted research towards my Master's thesis in the lab, under the supervision of Dr. Susanna Bidgood.
I have presented posters at several conferences, including the XXI International Poxvirus, Asfavirus and Iridovirus Conference, held in July 2016, and the GRC Viruses & Cells of May 2017.
At the LMCB I also reside on the Postgraduate Committee as the non-programme student representative, and am a member of the LMCB’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee, which includes the Athena SWAN charter committee.