Profile
Ciaran Lee
My CV
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Education:
Co. Offaly, Ireland
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Qualifications:
Junior Cert (GCSE) – English, Irish, Maths, Science, French, Geography, History, Woodwork, Technical Drawing
Leaving Cert (A Levels) – English, Irish, Maths, French, Biology, Chemistry, Technical Drawing, Applied Maths
Undergraduate Degree – Genetics
Phd Degree – Molecular Medicine -
Work History:
Farm Laborer
Construction Laborer
Scientist – Postdoc Researcher -
Current Job:
Lecturer
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Employer:
University College Cork
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About Me:
Scientist, Farmer, Musician.
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I live in the countryside with my wife and son. We have two dogs, a cat, and a pig. I enjoy playing music, growing vegetables, and supporting Welsh rugby.
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My Work:
I study how to treat genetic diseases and how the bacteria in our gut keep us healthy.
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Genetic diseases are rare diseases with few treatment options. Using genetic engineering I am developing ways to cure these diseases. I also study how the bacteria in our gut contribute to our overall health. In particular I study on how they engage with out immune systems in the context of inflammatory bowel disease and cancer.
How a study on ‘bubble boy’ syndrome sparked a career in gene editing
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My Typical Day:
I usually get up before the sun rises to get an early start to the day! The first thing I do is plan out my day and set up my experiments. For lunch I meet with my colleagues to discuss the latest breakthroughs in science. In the afternoon I check my results and think about what they mean.
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A lot of my work is based on looking at DNA and genes. I take DNA out of cells and run experiments to read the genetic code. I look at the genetic code of normal cells and disease cells and try to find the differences. I develop tools to edit and change the genetic code in our cells to try and correct and treat genetic diseases.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
Run a hands on DNA workshop for students.
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Scientist, Farmer, Musician
What did you want to be after you left school?
Detective
Were you ever in trouble at school?
Yes
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Metallica
What's your favourite food?
Chilli
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
A fancy car, a new guitar, be President
Tell us a joke.
How do you organise a space party? You planet
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