I am a permanent member of research staff in the Botany department at the Natural History Museum in London. My research interests include molecular diagnostics and genomics of plant biodiversity. During the two-year period from 2007-2009, I am also developing and championing science projects related to the 2009 Darwin bicentenary celebrations.

I am also the director of science for The HMS Beagle Project (blog). We aim to build a sailing replica of the Beagle and retrace the 1831-1836 Voyage of the Beagle with an international crew of researchers, aspiring scientists and science communicators. The new Beagle will symbolise both the physical and intellectual adventure of science; she will be equipped with laboratories, 21st century science equipment and satellite communications, she will host science projects of international relevance while serving as vehicle for improving wider public engagement with and understanding of science.