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Becky’s scientific research interests lie in the study of lipid (cell membrane) binding behaviour of antimicrobial and anticancer peptides, polymers and polyphenols. From the point of view of lipid biophysics, her research has focused on defining the role of different lipid constituents within biological membranes and how these define membrane interaction with peptides and polymers.

Within the area of food security, Becky’s research has focused on seed defence proteins and peptides, particularly the functional properties of puroindolines and purothionins. These proteins also have pharmaceutical interest due to their antifungal and antimicrobial activity. She has also significant expertise investigating polyphenol/tannin binding to proteins and lipid membranes relating findings to animal and human nutrition.

Becky also has broader research interests in the areas of biomaterials and biophysical chemistry, and has worked on a number of related projects, including protein-polyphenol interactions, formulating solutions for poorly-water soluble drugs and polymer binding to lipid surfaces in advanced drug delivery. Her research regularly utilises central STFC facilities; neutron (ISIS, ILL) and X-ray (Diamond) reflectivity, and a variety of calorimetric and spectroscopic methods.