Fraser McPhie, Senior Scientific Advisor at the Animal and Plant Health Agency

Why did you choose to study here?

I first joined IGC (then IGMM) during my undergraduate research project and was attracted by the supportive environment and excellent facilities. I was particularly interested in the focus on translational research, and I was keen to expand my understanding of genetic research and integrate this into my own work. The opportunity to engage directly with patient networks and representatives was a major draw as it is vital that they do not face barriers to accessing the latest research.

What did you study and why?

My PhD and post-doctoral research focused on the rare genetic disorder primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), which impairs normal motile cilia function. Having already gained insight into PCD during my undergraduate project in Professor Pleasantine Mill’s lab, I was excited by the potential of novel gene therapies for PCD. I wanted to contribute to work that could bring meaningful improvement to patients, so I continued in Professor Mill’s group, investigating the molecular disease mechanisms in a patient group with newly identified PCD-causing mutations. This work was at the cutting-edge of genetic research and provided important answers for a cohort of patients who previously had little clarity about the cause of their condition.

What was the most rewarding aspect of your time here?

Engaging with the patient community was the highlight of my time at IGC. Understanding their experiences, answering their questions and sharing our research with them was a privilege. Their stories kept me motivated, particularly when the project proved difficult.

And the most challenging?

Beginning my PhD during lockdown was extremely challenging. My project was entirely lab-based, so adapting it into something I could work on from home was tricky. It wasn’t all bad; I helped (in a small way) to run an international online Cilia Research Symposium organised by Professor Mill. Even though I couldn’t attend conferences in person, I still had the chance to hear about a huge variety of exciting cilia research from around the world.

What have you done since completing your course?

I completed my PhD in September 2023 and left my post-doc in November 2024. Since then, I have been working in the UK Civil Service, and I am now a Senior Scientific Advisor at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). APHA is responsible for identifying and controlling endemic and exotic diseases affecting animals, plants and bees across the UK. In my role, I provide objective, holistic and evidence-based advice to UK Government policy teams, the UK Chief Veterinary Officer and ministers to support informed decision-making on animal disease control. I have contributed to the development of national disease control and eradication programmes, engaged directly with senior decision-makers, and continued my outreach work by working closely with agricultural communities.

How did your time at IGC help your career?

The frequent opportunities to present at IGC strengthened my ability to communicate complex evidence clearly and appropriately to a range of audiences. It also developed my critical thinking skills, particularly when evaluating published research. Although I no longer work at the bench, I learned resilience the hard way after repeated troubleshooting of particularly difficult experiments.

What are your future career aspirations?

I hope to continue developing my career within APHA and take on a greater role in strategic decision-making. I am particularly motivated to drive national disease eradication programmes through to completion, ensuring long-term protection for animals and UK citizens.