WHAT DO YOU DO?

If a friend asked me what I do, I’d say:

“I help innovative companies get rewarded for the cutting-edge work they’re doing. I work in R&D tax incentives, which means I help businesses in tech and financial services claim tax relief for the research and development they invest in. I translate complex technical projects into language that HMRC understands, making sure clients get the funding they deserve while staying compliant. I also lead training nationally, so I help others in the field grow their expertise too.”

WHY DO YOU DO IT?

Honestly? I kind of fell into it—but it turned out to be the perfect fit.

With an academic research background in computational biology, I’ve always loved solving complex problems and translating technical detail into something meaningful. R&D tax incentives let me do exactly that—bridging the gap between innovation and impact. I get to work with brilliant minds in tech and science, understand what makes their work cutting-edge, and help them get the recognition (and funding) they deserve.

Working at Cooper Parry has been a breath of fresh air. The culture is dynamic, supportive, and genuinely values innovation. I’ve had the chance to lead national training, shape how we approach technical claims, and grow alongside a team that’s as passionate as I am.

And spreadsheets? I won’t pretend they’re thrilling – but I do love the clarity they bring when you’re piecing together a complex claim. It’s like detective work with formulae.

WHAT KIND OF PROJECTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN?

I’ve worked on a wide spectrum of innovation funding projects, primarily focused on R&D tax relief for tech and financial services companies. These projects are exciting because they sit at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and strategic financial impact.

Some standout examples include:

• Software Development Projects: From cloud-based solutions to cybersecurity tools, I’ve helped clients articulate the technical challenges they’ve overcome—translating complex development work into successful claims that boost their bottom line.
• Scientific Research and Bioinformatics: Leveraging my academic background, I’ve worked with clients in life sciences and data analytics, ensuring their research is properly documented and rewarded. This has helped them reinvest in lab infrastructure and new research initiatives.
• Training and Capability Building: As Head of Training for the national R&D Incentives team, I’ve led initiatives that improve technical accuracy and client service across the board—making our team more effective and our clients more confident.

Each project is a chance to uncover hidden value in the work clients are already doing. The result? More funding, more innovation, and more momentum.

WHAT’S ON TOP OF YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Top of my bucket list? Giving a TED Talk.

Why? Because I’ve spent years translating complex science and tech into stories people can understand—and I’d love to take that to a global stage. Whether it’s about bioinformatics, innovation funding, or resilience in STEM, I want to inspire others to see the beauty in data, the power of curiosity, and the importance of inclusion.

I’ve spoken at universities, international conferences, and community events in almost every continent – but TED is the gold standard for ideas worth spreading. It’s not just about the talk itself; it’s about the platform, the reach, and the chance to connect with people who are hungry to learn and grow.