NICOLA BRADY
Oakville,Ontario
Summary
Experienced Research Technician with 15+ years’ experience in research and diagnostic laboratory settings. Expertise in cell and molecular biological techniques, including RNA extraction, western blotting, immunoassays and cell culture.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Technician
University of Glasgow
Glasgow, UK
10.2022 - 06.2025
- Performed RNA extraction, qPCR, and cell culture to contribute to research objectives.
- Coordinated sample collection, processing, and distribution to facilitate downstream analysis.
- Worked on a project investigating the differing immune profiles between patients with benign and malignant pleural effusions.
Research Assistant
University of Glasgow
Glasgow, UK
09.2018 - 10.2022
- Worked on a project examining canine faecal extracts to identify biomarkers of gastrointestinal disease and a project to identify biomarkers for viral diseases in salmon.
- Collaborated on multiple projects, primarily focusing on proteomics of mastitis to develop an on-farm diagnostic test.
- Developed technical skills in immunoassays by establishing a new ELSIA method and validating SPARCL assays for diagnostic applications.
- Enhanced lab management skills by supervising students and coordinating project activities.
Research Assistant
University of Glasgow
Glasgow, UK
08.2015 - 08.2018
- Validated and optimised rapid laboratory-based assays for various acute phase proteins in cattle, chicken, and salmon, and developed lateral flow immunoassays.
- Conducted research project analyzing acute phase proteins in laboratory settings.
- Operated Pentra 400 biochemical analyser, conducted SPARCL assays, and performed protein purification.
Technician
University of Glasgow
Glasgow, UK
05.2014 - 07.2015
- Conducted research on MHC's role in nematode resistance in sheep, contributing to understanding of immunological responses.
- Enhanced knowledge of techniques including PCR, sequencing, and cloning through hands-on laboratory work.
- Gained experience in immunoassays, focusing on optimization of ELISAs to improve assay performance.
Payroll Assistant
The Highland Council
Inverness, UK
03.2010 - 04.2014
- I worked in the Payroll Department.
- Addressed queries and made decisions by telephone and in person within set procedures.
- Processed payroll for all employees accurately and timely.
- Maintained employee records and update payroll information regularly.
- Assisted in preparing payroll reports for management review.
Research Assistant
University College London
London, UK
10.2005 - 08.2009
- Conducted research project on regulation and roles of adipose tissue-derived signals in insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction, contributing to understanding of metabolic health.
- Assisted in recruiting suitable patients for multiple studies, facilitating successful participant enrollment and ensuring research integrity.
- Managed stock logistics, prepared and presented findings to group members, and trained students and research staff, enhancing team knowledge and efficiency.
Medical Scientific Officer
Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology
Sydney, Australia
10.2003 - 09.2005
- Logged and coded histological specimens, performed specimen cut-up, slide preparation, and staining to support accurate diagnostics.
- Trained new staff in department procedures and protocols.
- Conducted laboratory tests and analyses for diagnostic purposes.
- Managed sample processing and ensured compliance with quality standards.
- Collaborated with medical staff to interpret test results and provide insights.
Research Assistant
University of Glasgow
Glasgow, UK
03.1999 - 08.2000
- Conducted research project investigating hypertension to contribute to understanding disease mechanisms.
- Performed DNA extraction, SSCP analysis, tissue culture, and transfection studies to support experimental objectives.
- Conducted literature reviews to support research projects at a leading academic institution.
Research Technician
King's College London
London, UK
10.1997 - 03.1999
- Contributed to research project investigating osteoporosis, enhancing understanding of disease mechanisms.
- Performed tissue culture, DNA and RNA extraction, RT-PCR, and immunoassays to support experimental objectives.
- Managed ordering and stock control, prepared results, and presented findings, ensuring smooth lab operations.
Medical Laboratory Scientific Officer
Wellcome Trust Centre
Oxford, UK
10.1996 - 10.1997
- Collaborated with Gene Mapping and Physical Identification Group on interdisciplinary research projects focused on diabetes and asthma.
- Performed DNA extraction, genotyping, PCR, exon trapping, and cDNA selection to support genetic studies.
- Managed laboratory equipment and ensured compliance with safety regulations and standards.
Education
M.Sc. - Forensic Science
University of Strathclyde
Glasgow, UK09-1996
B.Sc. (Hons) - Biological Sciences (Anatomy)
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, UK07-1995
Skills
- Lab management
- Data analysis
- Technical skills
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Team collaboration
Recent Publications
- Biomarker and proteome analysis of milk from dairy cows with clinical mastitis: Determining the effect of different bacterial pathogens on the response to infection., O'Reilly, E.L., Viora, L., Malcata, F., Pepler, P.T., Zadoks, R., Brady, N., Han Quang, H., McLaughlin, M., Horvatic, M.A., Gelemanovic, A., Kules, J., Mrljak, V., Eckersall, P.D., 2024, Research in Veterinary Science, 172, 105240
- Faecal proteomics in the identification of biomarkers to differentiate canine chronic enteropathies., O'Reilly, E.L., Horvatić, A., Kuleš, J., Gelemanović, A., Mrljak, V., Huang, Y., Brady, N., Chadwick, C.C., Eckersall, P.D. and Ridyard, A., 2022, Journal of Proteomics, 254, 104452
- Point-of-care tests for bovine clinical mastitis: what do we have and what do we need?, Malcata, F.B., Pepler, P.T., O'reilly, E.L., Brady, N., Eckersall, P.D., Zadoks, R.N. and Viora, L., 2020, Journal of Dairy Research, 87, 60-66
- Contrasting effects of high-starch and high-sugar diets on ruminal function in cattle., Francesio, A., Viora, L., Denwood, M.J., Tulley, W., Brady, N., Hastie, P., Hamilton, A., Davison, C., Michie, C. and Jonsson, N.N., 2020, Journal of Dairy Research, 87(2), 175-183
- An immunoturbidimetric assay for bovine haptoglobin., Brady, N., O’Reilly, E.L., McComb, C., Macrae, A.I. and Eckersall, P.D., 2019, Comparative Clinical Pathology, 28(1), 21-27
- Salivary IgA: A biomarker for resistance to Teladorsagia circumcincta and a new estimated breeding value., Fairlie-Clarke, K., Kaseja, K., Sotomaior, C., Brady, N., Moore, K. and Stear, M., 2019, Veterinary Parasitology, 269, 16-20
Timeline
Research Technician
University of Glasgow
10.2022 - 06.2025
Research Assistant
University of Glasgow
09.2018 - 10.2022
Research Assistant
University of Glasgow
08.2015 - 08.2018
Technician
University of Glasgow
05.2014 - 07.2015
Payroll Assistant
The Highland Council
03.2010 - 04.2014
Research Assistant
University College London
10.2005 - 08.2009
Medical Scientific Officer
Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology
10.2003 - 09.2005
Research Assistant
University of Glasgow
03.1999 - 08.2000
Research Technician
King's College London
10.1997 - 03.1999
Medical Laboratory Scientific Officer
Wellcome Trust Centre
10.1996 - 10.1997
M.Sc. - Forensic Science
University of Strathclyde
B.Sc. (Hons) - Biological Sciences (Anatomy)
University of Edinburgh