Dr Brett Greer is a senior research fellow within The School of Biological Sciences and Institute for Global Food Security.

Career Path and Advice

Tell us about your research and how your career has progressed?

I am a senior research fellow in the Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS), School of Biological Sciences. I am a bioanalytical chemist investigating natural toxins such as mycotoxins and plant toxins in crops, food and feed using LC-MS. I also conduct research into antimicrobial resistance and have recently revisited my PhD topic, researching freshwater toxins with the issues surrounding Lough Neagh.

I started as a research technician working in the area of peptide chemistry not long after graduating (a long time ago) and then joined IGFS about 15 years ago. Since then, I have completed a part-time PhD, became a research fellow and recently progressed to senior research fellow in the area of natural toxin analysis using mass spectrometry (LC-MS).

What do you find most rewarding about your work?

I develop analytical methods across different LC-MS systems for various classes of compounds, such as natural toxins or antibiotics. Developing these methods and using them across various projects to generate data is very rewarding.

What advice do you have for an aspiring individual hoping to pursue a career in your field?

I didn't really have much of a career plan and was lucky to have someone giving me opportunities which I took thankfully! My only advice would be to do something you enjoy and don't chase the money.....

All About Brett

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself?

I am a massive music fan and have around 600 cd's in my collection. I also love cooking, it helps me relax.

What is the best advice you have received or quote that you live by?

I don't have any in particular, although I do try to keep a positive mindset and I like Ezekial 25:17 from Pulp Fiction, as well as the famous John Lennon quote: "When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down 'happy'. They told me I didn't understand the assignment, and I told them they didn't understand life."

Who inspires you?

My parents, wife and kids.