معرفی
Dr Rebecca Shepherd is a Visiting Researcher at Lancaster Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, teaching Anatomy (MBCHB101) and Cellular Pathology (BIOL282) while conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of bone biology and analytical chemistry.
Her academic qualifications include:
- PhD (Medicine), Lancaster University, 2021
- BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science, Lancaster University, 2014
Her research program centers on bone marrow adipocyte function in osteoarthritis pathogenesis and pioneering Raman spectroscopy applications for ivory species identification. These projects demonstrate her dual expertise in skeletal pathophysiology and advanced analytical techniques, with direct implications for conservation efforts against illegal wildlife trade. Her methodology bridges macroscopic anatomy with molecular-level chemical analysis.
Her 2025 publication on pyomelanin-extracellular matrix interactions exemplifies her focus on biomaterial interfaces in connective tissue systems, revealing novel biochemical pathways relevant to tendon pathology.
Recognition for her work includes:
- Cave Young Investigator award
- Institute of Biomedical Science President's Prize
- Gregor Mendel Medal for Excellence in Biosciences
- UK/Russia Bioinspired Materials Conference Poster Prize
- Neil Mackenzie Public Engagement Award
She actively supervises self-funded postgraduate researchers in bone health and anatomy education while leading multiple funded projects including Raman spectroscopy for customs ivory identification (2023-2025) and collagen dynamics in osteosarcomas (2023). Her grant portfolio reflects strong industry and museum partnerships.
She contributes to the Experimental Medicine research group and maintains active public engagement through science festivals and editorial roles in medical journals.
