Alison Squire

Background

About Alison Squire

I have a masters degree in chemistry from the University of Oxford and I'm currently working as a Synthetic Chemist for Biosynth. Whilst at The University of Oxford I read for a Masters degree in chemistry, specialising in synthetic organic chemistry, culminating in an original drug discovery project in my final year. For this project I designed and synthesised small molecules ligands that would bind to and inhibit Leishmania bromodomains with the aim to cure the disease Leishmaniasis. Analysis of the binding was done via thermal shift assay. This specialisation during my Masters has given me valuable first-hand experience into how the early stages of drug discovery take place. Pursuing original research as part of a research group has allowed me to develop and manage my own project, producing meaningful results through the interpretation and critical assessment of data, in line with the expectations of the team. In contrast to my academic career, working in industry as a synthetic chemist has given me experience in the differences between industrial and academic settings. This has given me an opportunity to develop my synthetic methodologies and have a strong understanding of different methods of purification, as high purity of the final compound is always required. I am a driven and committed individual with a lot of passion for organic chemistry. I thrive in a fast paced environment and enjoy a challenge.