Developer System

Briony Strachan

Scientist for Microlab Diagnostics - a Rapid DNA platform developer

acckki@r.postjobfree.com

Summary

My background is dynamic, illustrating my ability to adapt and learn new concepts, no matter how disparate

they are from previous knowledge. I thoroughly enjoy working as part of a team, discussing scientific

problems and fully analyzing the results prior to reaching any conclusion. At the same time I am highly

motivated individually to complete tasks, especially in the laboratory. Despite the inherent frustrations that

come from research, I never give up on a problem until it is understood, and ideally, solved.

Experience

Scientist at Microlab Diagnostics

July 2013 - Present (8 months)

Microlab Diagnostics's aim is to build a rapid human identification system, integrating the processes of DNA

extraction, STR-PCR and separation of PCR product in a self-contained unit, with the chemistry performed

on a single disposable cartridge. The system operates using a plastic microdevice, with PCR being completed

using IR from Laser’s. I am involved in all aspects of the chemistry. However, my main focus was on PCR

development. Specifically I worked on optimizing the intra/inter colour balance of the STR profiles with 18

loci. This was achieved by correcting fluid flow, DNA: master mix ratios and thermocycling settings/times.

Long term studies included reagent stability and material compatibility verification.

Chemistry Graduate Student at University of Virginia

August 2009 - July 2013 (4 years)

I completed my doctorate under the guidance of Dr. James Landers. His laboratory's research focuses on

developing the microfluidic platform for use in forensic science, clinical diagnostics and on-site chemical

assays.

My Ph. D. mostly involved work on visual end-point detection of target DNA using particle adducted

oligonucleotides through hybridization-induced aggregation (HIA) of the particles. This exposed me to a

wealth of knowledge about DNA structure/characteristics, SNP mutations and the subtleties of primer/probe

design. HIA targets include pathogens, RNA viruses and the TPOX locus.

Microlfluidic device design and fabrication were core skills developed, leading to an integrated device

combining PCR and HIA together on one device.

Other projects undertaken and developed skills include:

Solid phase extraction of DNA on a a multiplex microdevice for the purification of dilute biological samples.

DNA quantification through magnetic particle aggregation.

qPCR, PCR, DNA quantification through fluorescence spectroscopy, CE separation amplified DNA and basic

electronic skills.

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Grant writing for the NIH and NIJ.

Manuscript preparation / conference presentations.

Undergraduate mentoring and formal teaching.

Patents

Versatile, Visible Method for Detecting Polymeric Analytes

United States Patent US Patent 20,130,084,565 Issued March 11, 2010

Inventors: Daniel Leslie, Jingyi Li, Briony Strachan

Publications

New Detection Modality for Label-Free Quantification of DNA in Biological Samples via

Superparamagnetic Bead Aggregation

Journal of the American Chemical Society 134 (12), 5689-5696 March 16, 2012

Authors: Daniel Leslie, Jingyi Li, Briony Strachan

Platinum nanoparticle-facilitated reflective surfaces for non-contact temperature control in microfluidic

devices for PCR amplification

Lab on a Chip 12 (1), 127-132 November 9, 2011

Authors: Daniel Leslie, Erkin Seker, Briony Strachan

Dual-domain microchip-based process for volume reduction solid phase extraction of nucleic acids from

dilute, large volume biological samples

Analytical chemistry 82 (13), 5669-5678 June 8, 2010

Authors: Carmen R. Reedy, Briony Strachan

Volume reduction solid phase extraction of DNA from dilute, large-volume biological samples

Forensic science international: genetics 4 (3), 206-212 April 30, 2010

Authors: Carmen R. Reedy, Joan Bienvenue, Briony Strachan

Volunteer Experience

First Aider at British Red Cross

May 2001 - September 2005 (4 years 5 months)

This was a fantastic experience. I would try to volunteer at least once a month. Mostly involved first aiding

at concerts, sporting events and community gatherings. These were crucial to fund the other work of the Red

Cross in the greater Glasgow area. You were always paired with another member who would have varying

levels of experience. Often you had never met before, yet had to work seamlessly together. At these events

you could have a quiet night where you would treat no one, yet others were non-stop with some critical

patients. Our roles were purely triage and only worked because everyone knew their role in the system to

provide the best care possible.

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Skills & Expertise

Chemistry

Science

PCR

Analytical Chemistry

Biochemistry

microfluidics

DNA extraction

DNA electrophoresis

DNA quantification

Hybridization

Education

The University of Huddersfield

Msci (1st class), Forensic and Analytical Chemistry, 2005 - 2009

Activities and Societies: After the first year of this degree I spent the summer on a Greek island working in a

restaurant. Speaking and writing in Greek was essential to customers getting what they wanted - so I learned

rapidly!

The University of Stirling

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) (Hons), Film and Media Studies, 2001 - 2005

Activities and Societies: One summer I worked as a face painter at the local Safari Park.

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Briony Strachan

Scientist for Microlab Diagnostics - a Rapid DNA platform developer

acckki@r.postjobfree.com

Contact Briony on LinkedIn

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Contact this candidate