Tormead Biology Enrichment Programme

Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu - Emeritus Professor of Nursing, University of West London

​It is a pleasure to welcome Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu to Tormead, for a very special talk for the girls and parents. Elizabeth has the honour of being the first Sickle Cell and Thalassemia specialist in Britain, patron of the Sickle Cell Society, and recipient of numerous honorary degrees, along with a Pride of Britain Lifetime Achievement Award. In her talk, she will describe the array of challenges she has faced and the hard work that has been required, to ensure that Sickle Cell sufferers receive the specialist treatment they need. 

Anthony Field - Arctic Sustainable Development Manager, WWF UK

​It is a pleasure to welcome Anthony to Tormead, who will give a fascinating talk about the Arctic, and the vast changes this unique area is undergoing as a result of climate change. He will discuss the challenges we all face protecting biodiversity, whilst accommodating for an exponentially increasing population. 

Rebecca Mayne - Cancer Survivor (based on talk) / Cabin Service Director with British Airways

​Tormead is honoured to host a talk with cancer survivor Rebecca Mayne, who will share with us her life affirming story - from the discovery of the cancer-related BRAC1 gene and the screening, discovery and diagnosis of the lump, through to her chemotherapy, preventative mastectomy and incredible reconstructive surgery. Rebecca will also be joined by her daughter Acacia, who will discuss the emotional recovery and the impact it has had on family life.

Professor Sir Melvyn Greaves - Cancer biologist and Professor of Cell Biology at the Institute of Cancer Research, London.

​KYTOS is honoured to welcome Professor Sir Melvyn Greaves for a fascinating talk on how evolutionary biology informs us about health. He is a pioneer in the research field of childhood leukaemia, winning countless awards for his work. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society, an Honorary Member of the Royal College of Physicians, and a Fellow of the United Kingdom Academy of Medical Sciences.

Dr Melanie Bailey - Lecturer in Analytical and Forensic Science

​Tormead is thrilled to welcome once again Dr Mel Bailey who will be sharing with us another a glimpse into the fascinating world of Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation. Dr Bailey is a Lecturer in Chemistry at the University of Surrey, where she lectures on Analytical Chemistry and Forensics.

Dr Nancy Girgis - Senior Clinical Honorary Lecturer at The Faculty of Dental Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons

​Dr Girgis joins Tormead as a KYTOS Guest Speaker on the 29th March, where she will gives tips and advice for those wishing to pursue a career in Dentistry. She will also discuss specific areas of interest, including gum disease. Dr Girgis has been a qualified dentist for the last 19 years, and is currently a Senior Clinical Honorary Lecturer at the Faculty of Dental Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons of England. She is a member of the National Examining Board and founder and director of Best Dental Training, a company specialising in Dental Education and Training for Dentists and Dental Care Professionals. 

Professor Laurence Hurst - Professor of Evolutionary Genetics and President of the Genetics Society

Professor Hurst joins Tormead on Wednesday 13th March for a very special talk to launch the KYTOS Genetics Society. He will be discussing his ground-breaking research into human evolution, and will be inviting audience members to ask him questions in the Q and A session at the end of the event. 

Jessica Thornycroft - Veterinary undergraduate and Ex-Tormead pupil

​​​Jessica returns to Tormead to give an insight into life as a Veterinary undergraduate. She has first-hand experience of the preparation required, and will give her own tips and tricks for success. 

Dr Phil Ridsdill Smith - Partner at the Haslemere Health Centre

​Dr Ridsdill-Smith will be returning to Tormead to discuss the causes and complications of strokes. 

Dr James Marsh - Consultant Nephrologist and Joint Medical Director

​​Dr Marsh will be joining Tormead to discuss life as a physician, and his own experiences as a Consultant Nephrologist. In a first for the KYTOS Guest Speaker Programme, he will be joined by a patient who will share their experiences of life with declining renal function, dialysis and and subsequent kidney transplantation. Dr Marsh studied at Oxford University before completing his clinical training at Guy’s Hospital, and a PhD investigating mechanisms of transplant rejection. Dr Marsh was appointed as a Consultant Nephrologist at St Helier Hospital in 2003. Before becoming Joint Medical Director in 2011, he held roles as Clinical Lead for Transplantation and, from 2008, Clinical Director.

Isabelle Newell - Oxford University graduate; Biomedical Sciences

Isabelle has recently graduated from the University of Oxford, having studied Biomedical Sciences. She returns to Tormead after her popular talk on the university application process, to give an insight into her own area of expertise - genetics in medical research and therapy, with reference to immunotherapy. 

Robert Green OBE - Director of Undergraduate Studies, University of Kent

Robert Green OBE is currently the director of studies leading the forensic science programmes at the University of Kent. He has almost 30 years practical experience working in the field of forensic science, teaching and policing study. He has been responsible for the management of many serious and notable crime scenes, working both in the UK and abroad.  For his services to forensic science he was made an OBE in the Queen's Honours list of 2008. Prior to joining the University full-time Robert worked for the Forensic Science Service (FSS) before moving on to the Home Office to become the head of science and technology. As the author of several national reviews of forensic science, he is noted for developing and leading the national programme of cold case review – Operation Advance as well as being an international speaker on the development of DNA and other biometric databases.

Tiegan Cormie and Cicely Hayes - University of Bath undergraduates studying Psychology

Tiegan and Cicely, both past Tormead students are in their second year at the University of Bath studying Psychology. Having recently been through the UCAS process, undergoing numerous interviews, they have first-hand experience of the preparation required. They will discuss how to make the choice between different degrees on offer, explain the structure of the Psychology course at the University of Bath, and take any questions on the whole application process.

Dr Melanie Bailey - Lecturer in Analytical and Forensic Science

​Dr Melanie Bailey joins Tormead to share with us a glimpse into the fascinating world of Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation. Dr Bailey is a Lecturer in Chemistry at the University of Surrey, where she lectures on Analytical Chemistry and Forensics. She has been developing ion beam analysis and ambient mass spectrometry methods for the analysis of trace evidence collected from crime scenes such as gunshot residue particles, soils, fibres, paints and glass. She has collaborated with the Netherlands Forensic Institute, Home Office Centre for Applied Science and Technology and the National Physical Laboratory to name but a few. Her work has been published in a variety of technical journals and featured in The Guardian, Sky News, ITV News, BBC Radio and Scientific American.

Virginia McKenna OBE - Stage and screen actress, author and wildlife campaigner

​KYTOS are honoured to host a talk with Virginia McKenna OBE, who will be sharing stories of the fascinating species of wildlife that she has encountered during her adventures, and explaining the origins of her Born Free Foundation, initiated 34 years ago. Following a successful career as an actress, Virginia started Zoo Check in 1984 with her late husband, Bill Travers. Zoo Check later became the registered charity, the Born Free Foundation.  Whilst Virginia still finds time to work occasionally as an actress, her leading role now is within the conservation and animal welfare movement.  Virginia has also authored, co-authored and co-edited numerous books as well as travelling extensively over the years visiting zoos about which the Born Free Foundation has received complaints.

Harriet Sharp - Brighton and Sussex University undergraduate studying Medicine

Harriet has recently left Tormead, and is now a first year medic at Brighton and Sussex University. Having recently been through the UCAS process and undergone numerous interviews, she has had first-hand experience of the preparation required. Harriet's commitment and dedication to Biology has always been evident, having taken part in a vast number of KYTOS events herself. Harriet will discuss how to make the choice between different degrees on offer, explain the structure of the Medicine course at the University and take any questions on the whole application process.

Gabby Chavez - DNA analyst at Orchid Cellmark, DNA Testing Firm

Gabby works as a DNA analyst for the world's largest DNA testing firm, Orchid Cellmark. Established in 1987, it was the first private company to license the DNA fingerprinting technique. She is responsible for extracting the DNA from provided samples, profiling the DNA and then loading the results onto the national database. Gabby studied Medical Neuroscience at the University of Sussex, and many years ago, was a student of Tormead's own Mr Isaacs.

Dr Deborah Harvey - Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Royal Holloway, University of London

Dr Harvey is a researcher in ecology at Royal Holloway University of London, working on improving and monitoring biodiversity in school grounds linked to well-being and attainment in Science. As a chemo-ecologist, she enjoys identifying pheromones from endangered species of insects and using them to monitor species. Dr Harvey has run several national monitoring schemes and worked with Chris Packham, appeared with George McGavin on The One Show , on Radio 4, and even Canadian radio!

Lord Robert Winston - Professor of Science and Society and Emeritus Professor of Fertility Studies at Imperial College London

Lord Winston is Professor of Science and Society and Emeritus Professor of Fertility Studies at Imperial College London. In the 1970s he developed gynecological surgical techniques that improved fertility treatments. He later pioneered new treatments to improve  in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and developed pre-implantation diagnosis. This allowed embryos to be screened for genetic diseases and has allowed parents carrying faulty genes to have children free of illnesses. Robert Winston is Chairman of the Genesis Research Trust – a charity which raised over £13 million to fund high quality research into women’s health and babies. He joins Tormead in May to discuss this vital work.

Caroline Prymak - Specialist in soft tissue and oncologic surgery

Caroline undertook a three year residency at The University of Pennsylvania, before returning to Liverpool University as their Small Animal Surgery lecturer. Caroline then joined The Animal Health Trust as Head of Small Animal Surgery before entering into the field of veterinary referrals, establishing Prymak Referrals in 2002. Caroline has spoken at national and international veterinary conferences and has been published in several veterinary journals. She joins KYTOS to talk about working in Veterinary Medicine and to share stories from her own career.

Dr Tony Dhillon - Consultant Medical Oncologist and Senior Lecturer, University of Surrey

Dr Tony Dhillon will be giving an informative talk about cancer, with particular focus on his own area of interest, cancer immunology. This will be an ideal opportunity to ask questions about a topic that frequently comes up on the IGCSE and A-Level syllabus. Dr Dhillon has been a consultant medical oncologist since 2010. He is a senior lecturer in oncology at the University of Surrey and Imperial College London, looking into new treatment in GI cancers.

James South - Head of Digital Learning and History Teacher

Tormead's very own Mr South will be joining the KYTOS Guest speaker Programme to discuss his personal experience of living with Ulcerative Colitis. Ulcerative Colitis is a condition that causes inflammation and ulceration of the inner lining of the rectum and colon (the large bowel), and is classed as one of the two main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Dr Phil Ridsdill Smith - Partner at the Haslemere Health Centre

Dr Ridsdill Smith will be returning to Tormead to discuss issues related to diabetes. With cases of Type 2 diabetes on the rise, the talk will look at the implications treatment has, not only on the NHS, but on society as a whole. His clinical interests include Proactive Care (for complex and vulnerable patients) as well as pediatrics, and he works with the Patient Participation Group to ensure active patient involvement.

Charlotte Isaacs - Specialist in substance misuse and addiction

Charlotte has worked extensively in both B and C category prisons with clients who suffer from substance misuse problems, including the notorious HMP Wormwood Scrubs. She has been heavily involved in substitute prescribing for opioid dependence and has worked in the community setting with dual diagnosis patients.

Lauren Smart - Liverpool University undergraduate studying Veterinary Medicine

Having achieved a fantastic set of results during her time at Tormead, previous student Lauren Smart returns to provide a unique insight into the life of a Veterinary undergraduate. Lauren is now in her fourth year at the University of Liverpool studying Veterinary Medicine. She will discuss what the course entails, and how best to approach the university application process, including advice on the most beneficial types of work experience to get involved in.

Alex Learmont - Ecology Services Assistant with Surrey Wildlife Trust

Alex studied Zoology at Bristol University. Upon graduating, she managed to secure an internship at Surrey Wildlife Trust, learning skills right across the organisation from receptionist to ecologist. She now works in the Ecology Services department carrying out surveys on protected species and habitats in Surrey. She is also the designated lead for the Surrey Water Vole Recovery Project which involves surveying and mapping Surrey’s waterways in search of lost Water Voles.

Dr Colin Summerhayes - Executive Director of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research

Dr. Colin Summerhayes is a marine geologist and oceanographer with expertise in the role of climate in forming marine sediments of different types. From 1997, he served the UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, in Paris, as Director of the Global Ocean Observing System. As Emeritus Associate of Cambridge University, he has co-authored two scientific papers reviewing Antarctic climate and its role in the global climate system. Dr Summerhayes will be joining Tormead to discuss the work he has carried out into human impact on our environment, and other aspects of his illustrious career in the field.

Isabelle Newell - Oxford University undergraduate studying Biomedical Sciences

Isabelle is in her second year at the University of Oxford studying Biomedical Sciences. Having recently been through the UCAS process, sitting the BMAT exam and undergoing Oxbridge interviews, she has first-hand experience of the preparation required. She will discuss how to make the choice between different science and medical degrees, explain the structure of the Oxford Biomedical Sciences degree, and take any questions on university application.

Kelly Charlton - Qualified Veterinary Nurse from Pet Doctors

Kelly will be giving advice on how to get into the profession as a nurse, what the role entails and what opportunities for progression are available. She will also touch upon the requirements to become a Veterinary Surgeon. Kelly has been a nursing for 15 years and has a passion for passing on her skills and knowledge to others. Should anyone be interested, she has kindly offered to give a tour at the Guildford clinic at a later date.

Dr Phil Ridsdill Smith - Partner at the Haslemere Health Centre

Dr Ridsdill Smith will be coming to Tormead to discuss the cause and risk factors associated with heart attacks and angina, and to explain how ECG's can be used in their diagnosis. The talk will also outline the basics of heart physiology. His clinical interests include Proactive Care (for complex and vulnerable patients) as well as paediatrics, and he works with the Patient Participation Group to ensure active patient involvement.

Tamsin Thomas - Solicitor specialising in clinical negligence

Tamsin Thomas was admitted as a solicitor in 1996, and has been involved in a number of cases regarding clinical negligence, personal injury and mental health. She has been an active member of the Medical Defence Union for the last 16 years. This is your chance to put questions to Tamsin in the intimate setting of a Tormead networking tea.

Dr Richard Isaacs - Consultant Anaesthetist at University Hospital Southampton

Dr Richard Isaacs is part of a team of doctors shortlisted for a prestigious medical award, having developed a groudbreaking epidural simulator. It is designed to train doctors to carry out the procedure and reduce the risk of harm to patients. He will be sharing his experience of working on the simulator as well as highlights from his career in anaesthetics. (Suitable for Year 9-13)

Darius Hughes - Head of Pfizer Vaccines, UK

Pfizer is a global, research-based biopharmaceutical company with the aim of improving health and well-being at every stage of life. Darius Hughes, the Head of Vaccines, Pfizer UK will be coming to Tormead to speak about a number of interesting discussion points, including career options for pharmacists, and how new drugs are developed; from initial research to clinical testing.

Professor Alasdair Cook - Head of Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health (University of Surrey)

Professor Cook is a veterinary epidemiologist with over 25 years of experience in livestock animal health. He has spent a number of years overseas working with poor rural communities in supporting animals as part of sustainable livelihoods. (Suitable for Year 11-13)