Tim’s research group works to improve the productivity and success of bivalve aquaculture in the UK by using the most appropriate technologies to deal with issues such as disease and environmental health.

Tim studied biology in the University of Nottingham and for a PhD in molecular biology at Rothamsted Research before moving track completely, to work as a government scientist at Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science – the UK government fisheries research agency). His work at Cefas involved field and laboratory studies into the biology and control of diseases in aquaculture through to laboratory studies into mode of action of key chemical contaminants in bivalves, and it was through these channels that he developed a key interest in bivalve biology. Over time, his position at Cefas developed naturally from analytical scientist to a principle investigator developing and managing projects. This included gaining knowledge and experience of the breeding, culture and general biology of UK farmed bivalve species. In addition, he has experience of designing and running large scale disease challenges in controlled systems and working directly with notifiable pathogens in the laboratory.