Clair Preece

Clair Preece is a Senior Lecturer in Microbiology at the University of Sunderland, School of Medicine. She teaches clinical microbiology, antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance throughout Phase 1 (years 1 and 2) of the undergraduate Medicine MBChB program. Her teaching responsibilities include facilitating problem-based learning, serving as a personal tutor, health and safety lead, practicals lead, year 3 academic lead and also co-leading on scaffolding and revision resources for Phase 1 students.

Dr. Preece's educational background includes:

• BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science at Northumbria University
• PhD at Northumbria University in collaboration with the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle
• PGCE in secondary science at University of Sunderland

Her primary research interests focus on non-tuberculous mycobacteria and rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Dr. Preece has developed expertise in culture medium development specifically for cystic fibrosis microbiology. Her work bridges clinical microbiology with practical applications for patient care, particularly for those with cystic fibrosis who are vulnerable to specific bacterial infections. She has a passion for both teaching and science, with particular enthusiasm for bacteriology.

Analysis of Dr. Preece's publication record reveals a consistent focus on diagnostic methods for mycobacterial infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Her research demonstrates expertise in developing and evaluating culture media for non-tuberculous mycobacteria, with particular emphasis on rapid detection methods. The publications show a progression from medium development to clinical application and antimicrobial testing, indicating a comprehensive approach to addressing challenges in diagnosing and treating mycobacterial infections in vulnerable patient populations.

Dr. Preece has received several notable scientific awards:

• 2022 Analytical Division Horizon Prize: Robert Boyle Prize for Analytical Science with the Royal Society of Chemistry
• Professor Arthur L James/bioMerieux Prize
• Institute of Biomedical Science Presidents Prize
• Innovation and research award won by the Freeman Hospital Microbiology department in the NHS Celebrating Excellence Awards

As an academic advisor and researcher, Dr. Preece has made significant contributions to her field. She was named on a patent for the culture medium developed during her PhD, which is now globally marketed by bioMerieux as NTM Elite. This medium is recommended in current guidelines for diagnosing and managing cystic fibrosis. Her research has practical clinical applications, directly impacting patient care protocols. She is actively involved in multiple professional organizations that support her research and teaching endeavors.

Dr. Preece is a member of several professional networks and societies including the NTM UK Network, British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (BSAC), Society for Applied Microbiology (SfAM), Microbiology Society and American Society for Microbiology (ASM). These affiliations support her research in non-tuberculous mycobacteria and antimicrobial susceptibility testing, providing collaborative opportunities and professional development.