Hanifa Kaleem

Hanifa is an ambitious Microbiologist with a fascination into antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and Staphylococcus aureusinfections. Currently, completing her MScR in the Laboratory of Bacterial Evolution and pathogenesis (LBEP) at the Roslin Institute, her Masters focuses on a novel transporter, and how it may promote the growth of Staphylococcus aureus in different host- species. This particular project focuses on bovine as the host model.

Hanifa completed her bachelor’s degree with honours in Biomedical Science at the University of Bradford from 2022-2025. Throughout the degree, Hanifa took many opportunities to expand her laboratory and clinical skills. From a hospital internship in Morocco (summer of 2023), exploring the clinical tests required to diagnose patients suffering from various ailments.

To a summer internship in the summer of 2024 investigating the development of the brain extracellular matrix in naked mole rats. This internship expanded my technical skills, exploring skills that was previously taught at only theory- such as cryostat, immunohistochemistry and western blotting. The research allowed me to enhance my laboratory proficiencies and critical thinking.

During the same summer an additional project arose to participate in the investigation of biofilm formation within contact lens, cases and solutions for Menicon. I found my greatest interest within the formation of biofilms and the mechanisms required for antimicrobial resistance. This project increased my comprehension for the severity of biofilm formation in everyday lifestyle; increasing my determination to find a solution to this dire problem. Resulting, in the undertaking of my bachelor’s dissertation with Antony Scimone in the Life Science department – understanding the interactions and biofilm production between S. aureus and S. epidermidis under various conditions. This led me to undertake my bachelor’s dissertation with Dr. Antony Scimone in the Life Science department, understanding the relationship between S. aureus and S. epidermidis under various conditions.

Following graduation, Hanifa had the opportunity to work as a support laboratory technician for the University, ensuring the efficient running of the teaching laboratory for both undergraduates and postgraduate students. Honing her technical and teaching ability to assist both students and staff in a welcoming environment.