ApconiX Welcomes Michelle Blissett
ApconiX is delighted to welcome Michelle Blissett who joins the Acuity Target Safety Assessment team working with Professor Ruth Roberts and Dr James Sidaway. With almost 20 years devoted to preclinical toxicology, Michelle has developed an excellent ability to conduct extensive literature searches, interrogating, analysing and interpreting data and has contributed to regulatory and scientific reports and produced numerous literature reviews.
Studying Biomedical Science
Michelle joined AstraZeneca straight from school, deciding to take up an apprenticeship rather than go straight to University. Michelle began her career as an Associate Research Scientist in the Clinical Pathology Laboratory.
Michelle commented, “I was a STEM ambassador at AstraZeneca encouraging the next generation to explore the options of how to gain qualifications and experience as university obviously isn’t for everyone although the knowledge and qualifications are a requirement for the work we do. I found mentoring young people very rewarding.”
Michelle studied Biomedical Science at The Manchester Metropolitan University and gained a master’s degree in Applied Toxicology at the University of Surrey. She studied for both degrees part time while working at AstraZeneca.
Work Experience
Michelle continued in the Clinical Pathology Laboratory at AstraZeneca working in immunotoxicology on a range of in vitro biochemical assays, where she gained experience of routine analysis in immunoassay, clinical chemistry, haematology, and cell culture.
Moving into biomarkers, Michelle contributed to a pioneering team as project contact for a global collaboration working on novel nucleotide therapeutic platforms.
She remained at AstraZeneca until 2016, leaving following the company’s decision to move from Alderley Park to Cambridge.
Joining Gentronix, Michelle worked as part of the cytogenetics team assessing micronuclei to evaluate the genotoxic effects of chemical agents, generating study plans and study reports for clients all around the world.
Working at ApconiX
With almost 20 years’ experience in preclinical toxicology, Michelle has developed an excellent ability to conduct extensive literature searches, interrogating, analysing and interpreting data and has contributed to regulatory and scientific reports and produced numerous literature reviews.
Michelle commented, “I know many of my colleagues from working at AstraZeneca. I have been watching ApconiX grow and develop since Ruth, Richard and Mike started the company in 2015. When a recent job vacancy was advertised, I jumped at the chance to become part of the team.” Adding, “My experience as a Senior Toxicologist in clinical chemistry, haematology, cytogenetics and conducting preclinical studies combined with report writing and global client liaison seemed a perfect fit for carrying out target safety assessments.”
James commented “With her preclinical toxicology experience, Michelle is a brilliant addition to the Target Safety Assessment team. She has hit the ground running and is making a great contribution to the delivery of TSAs.”
Interests Outside Work
A mum of two young daughters (and two dogs), Michelle doesn’t have a lot of time for hobbies but does enjoy walking, yoga and baking, the latter of which the team is looking forward to sampling in the very near future!
