Angela Helen Beckett Portrait

Miss Angie Beckett

Summary

I am a Specialist Research Technician working on next generation sequencing in the Discovery team of the Centre for Enzyme Innovation (CEI). Our focus is on discovering novel enzymes, with plastic degrading capabilities, from the environment.

My expertise is in biotechnology with a focus on molecular microbiology. I use nanopore sequencing to search the genomes of environmental microorganisms for novel polymer (and thus plastic) degrading genes. Plastic has become so ubiquitous in the environment that some microorganisms have evolved to break it down and utilise it as a carbon source. We can take this process and enhance it for our own benefit. Namely to create a circular plastic economy, in which plastic can be efficiently recycled, instead of the de-cycling into lower quality plastic that is the current industry standard.

Since 2020, I have helped to establish and maintain The South Coast Sequencing Hub for the COVID-19 Genomics UK (COG-UK) Consortium, for which I have been recognised as a key contributor. This is a network of research institutes, public health agencies and NHS Trusts, working together to understand the spread of the virus across the UK. Through the use of whole genome sequencing of virus samples, we are able to further understand how the virus spreads, identify direct transmission chains in hospitals and other settings, and identify potential variants of concern.

I believe in communicating science to others and making the subject more accessible. I regularly participate in public outreach events, with a particular focus on encouraging and supporting women in STEM.

 

Biography

I am a scientist who holds a Masters with distinction in Biomedical Science; specialising in medical microbiology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

Previous to my employment at the University of Portsmouth, I have over 5 years R&D experience working in industry. In my first job, at Enigma Diagnostics, I developed a point-of-care diagnostic assay for viral meningitis, as well as performing testing on flu viruses. This involved cell culture, virology and qPCR.

In my next role as a Senior Fermentation Scientist at Porton Biopharma Limited (PBL), I led the development of a second generation Anthrax vaccine as well generating and executing innovative project ideas. During this time; I developed and performed protein analytical assays, worked at Containment Level 3, managed high containment laboratories, performed vaccine fermentations and had line management responsibilities.

Research interests

  • Next generation sequencing
  • Bioinformatics for biologists
  • Infectious disease
  • Environmental biology