معرفی
Dr. Natalie Ferry is a Lecturer in Biotechnology and Head of Biomedicine at the University of Salford's School of Science, Engineering & Environment. With expertise spanning plant science, biotechnology, and environmental research, she leads academic strategy across the Biomedicine subject area while maintaining an active research program focused on sustainable biotechnologies.
Her academic journey began with a BSc(Hons) in Plant Science at Durham University, followed by a PhD at Newcastle University investigating GM crop environmental impacts. After six years as a postdoctoral researcher at Newcastle University working with Professors Harry Gilbert and Angharad Gatehouse, she joined Salford in 2010. She holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (2013-2014) and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).
Dr. Ferry's research advances the Green Bioeconomy through nature-inspired innovation, particularly in discovering novel plant cell wall-degrading enzymes from overlooked environments. The Ferry Lab has identified over 2,500 biomass-degrading enzymes by exploring underexamined ecosystems, with current emphasis on recombinant expression and commercial application of hemicellulose-degrading enzymes for sustainable industries.
Her publication record shows consistent contributions across multiple disciplines including microbiology, biochemistry, environmental science, and molecular biology. Recent work spans from enzyme characterization for biomass conversion to microplastics research and educational technology studies, demonstrating the breadth of her research interests.
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
As an educator, Dr. Ferry leads key postgraduate modules including Green Biotechnology and Molecular Biology & Proteomics, and supervises undergraduate and postgraduate research projects focused on enzyme expression and commercial applications. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes developing research-ready scientists through practical, translational bioscience education.
Dr. Ferry's work aligns with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to quality education, sustainable industrialization, responsible consumption and production, and climate action, demonstrating her commitment to addressing global challenges through academic research and education.
