I started working at Portsmouth as a Lecturer in 2011. I became a Senior Lecturer in 2013 and Principal Lecturer/Associate Head of School (Students) in 2021. Prior to this, I completed a PhD at The University of Southampton entitled ‘The Stigmatisation of Certain Contemporary Weapons of War: Its Origins, Evolution and Development’. Outside of academia, I have worked for 8 years within the National Health Service.

My research interests relate to the challenges of preventing the use and proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. I have published and presented at national and international conferences on this and have shared my expertise as an analyst and commentator for national and international media outlets.

My research lies principally within three strands of security and defence:

• Norms associated with WMD: I have focused upon the norms associated with WMD, specifically, the concept of a stigma, questioning how and why these weapons remain distinct (legally) from other methods of warfare.
• Conceptualisation of deterrence in the 21st century: This addresses the development of new, innovative modes of warfare which cross over the boundaries of civilian and military activity. My research examines the challenges and issues associated with this. I am interested in exploring new and innovative ways to enhance collaboration between military, academic, and policy professionals within my field. I am a member of a number of organisations and groups which seek to address this.
• Barriers to collaboration associated with gender equality and diversity: I explore how inequalities can impact the formation of deterrence policy. Within my role at Portsmouth, I am the Equality and Diversity Lead for my School. I have completed training in this area and have been using my skills and knowledge to enhance my research.

I teach principally on the themes of international relations, security and defence, and deterrence.