Spotlight on... Tammaryn Lashley

What is your role and what does it involve? 

As the Professor of Neuroscience in the Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, my role involves leading a research group dedicated to exploring the intricate pathological processes that underlie neurodegenerative diseases. Our primary focus is on Frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease, although we also engage in collaborative projects related to Parkinson's disease. Our research encompasses a wide range of approaches and investigations. A significant part of our work involves conducting in-depth post-mortem examinations of human brain tissue affected by neurodegenerative diseases. This includes examining brain tissue samples to identify and understand the physical changes and abnormalities associated with these diseases. We seek to establish correlations between the clinical symptoms exhibited by individuals with neurodegenerative diseases and the underlying pathological changes we observe in their brain tissue. This aspect of our research aims to shed light on the connections between disease progression and clinical manifestations. Our research group also conducts biochemical studies of brain tissue, with a focus on analysing changes in proteins and lipids. This allows us to gain insights into the molecular alterations that occur in neurodegenerative diseases, which can be crucial for understanding disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. One unique aspect of our research involves investigating the role of RNA-binding proteins in neurodegenerative diseases. We have identified distinct pathological patterns associated with these proteins in various neurodegenerative conditions, and we aim to unravel their significance in disease progression. This research is particularly intriguing as it offers new avenues for understanding and potentially treating these conditions. Ultimately, our goal is to contribute to a better understanding of these devastating diseases and, hopefully, pave the way for new insights and treatments in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. 

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role? 

I have been at UCL for over 24 years! I began in 1999 as a research technician under the guidance of Professor Tamas Revesz. Over the years, I have undertaken various roles, each contributing to my academic and professional growth. As a research technician I gained valuable experience in laboratory research and techniques. While continuing to work with Prof. Revesz, I embarked on a part-time PhD, simultaneously, I also performed the routine histology tasks for the Queen Square Brain Bank. This period was marked by a balance between my academic pursuits and contributing to the running of the brain bank. Following the completion of my PhD, I took on several post-doctoral positions, all within Prof. Revesz's research group. These positions allowed me to further refine my research skills and make significant contributions to the field. My dedication and commitment to Alzheimer's research culminated in my success in obtaining both junior and senior fellowships from Alzheimer's Research UK. These fellowships provided the necessary support to pursue my independent research initiatives.

In recognition of my contributions to neuroscience and Alzheimer's research, I was appointed as a Professor of Neuroscience in 2020. This appointment marked a significant milestone in my academic career, and I continue to work to advance our understanding of neurological disorders and contribute to the scientific community. Through my journey at UCL, I have evolved from a research technician to a Professor of Neuroscience, with each step shaping my expertise and commitment to the field of brain research. 

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of? 

I don’t think there is a single achievement or initiative at work that I am most proud of, but rather arises from the privilege of supporting others in their educational and professional journeys. I take great pride in my current role as the Departmental Graduate Tutor at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology. While I cannot pinpoint a singular achievement or initiative, the fulfilment I derive from this position stems from the opportunity it affords me to contribute meaningfully to the academic and professional development of our students. I am privileged to guide and support students on their doctoral journeys. Witnessing their growth, both academically and personally, as they progress through their PhD is immensely rewarding. Equally, I find satisfaction in assisting supervisors in their roles, enabling them to provide effective guidance and mentorship to their students. My sense of pride in this role is rooted in my intrinsic desire to facilitate the success of others. Drawing upon the knowledge and experience I have accumulated over the past 24 years and the amazing supervision that I received whilst undertaking my own PhD. I am dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their aspirations. It is my firm belief that by sharing the insights and wisdom I have gained throughout my career, I can make a substantive difference in the academic pursuits and future accomplishments of our students and colleagues. 

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list 

Oh gosh! I am currently tasked with numerous high-priority items on my to-do list, there is not enough hours in the day…From a research perspective, our laboratory is actively engaged in completing a manuscript that delves into the exploration of hnRNP proteins within the context of Frontotemporal Dementia. This study necessitates the convergence of various scientific disciplines, encompassing neuropathological investigations, single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics, and molecular biological validations. In this multifaceted study, involving many members of my research group and myself. Each of us is simultaneously engaged in other ongoing research initiatives. As a consequence of these parallel commitments, we have organized recurring catch-up meetings. The primary objective of these meetings is to streamline our collective efforts and facilitate the manuscript submission of this research project. 

What is your favourite album, film and novel? 

Life can get pretty hectic for me with three kids at home. Finding some "me time" can be a bit of a challenge, but I do have a few things I absolutely adore. One of my all-time favourite films has to be The Piano. There's just something about the music that really strikes a chord with me. As for my favourite album, it's definitely anything by Yo-Yo Ma. It all started when my husband surprised me with a beautiful cello. I've always dreamt of learning to play, and now I finally have the chance to make that dream a reality. So, I'm diving headfirst into the world of classical music. 

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)? 

A physicist, a biologist, and a chemist were going to the ocean for the first time. The physicist saw the ocean and was fascinated by the waves. He said he wanted to do some research on the fluid dynamics of the waves and walked into the ocean. Obviously, he was drowned and never returned. The biologist said he wanted to do research on the flora and fauna inside the ocean and walked inside the ocean. He, too, never returned. The chemist waited for a long time and afterwards, wrote the observation, “The physicist and the biologist are soluble in ocean water.” 

Who would be your dream dinner guests? 

Well, that's a bit of a tough question. If I could have dinner with anyone, including those who've passed away, I'd definitely choose to sit down with my Dad. He left us 25 years ago, and he missed out on seeing my journey and progress at UCL. I'd just love to fill him in on all the exciting things that have happened since. But, if we're talking about people who are still here with us, I'd have to say I'd be pretty excited to have a meal with athletes like Mo Farrah, Jessica Ennis-Hill, or any other sporting legends. I mean, it would be incredible to hear firsthand about their incredible dedication and passion for their sports.  

What advice would you give your younger self? 

If I could give some advice to my younger self, it would definitely be this: Believe in yourself. I'm naturally an introvert, and when you're in academia, it seems like being an extrovert can give you a leg up. I've always felt most at ease when I'm in the lab, doing my thing, but when it comes to presentations, it's a whole different story. Presenting in front of people has never come naturally to me. So, to my younger self, I'd say embrace the discomfort. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone. It's okay if it doesn't feel like "you" at first, because that's how growth happens. Learn how to navigate those situations that don't align with your natural inclinations. It might be tough, but it's all part of becoming the best version of yourself. So, trust in your abilities and keep pushing forward.  

What would it surprise people to know about you? 

I play the piano and tenor horn and have previously played in a brass band.  

What is your favourite place?  

Home.