Profile
Gemma Chandratillake
My CV
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Education:
West Kirby Grammar School (1990-1997),University of Cambridge (1997-2001), Open University (2001-2005), Stanford University (2008-2011)
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Qualifications:
Undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences (Genetics), Masters in Molecular Genetics, PhD in Molecular Genetics, Masters in Genetic Counselling, American Board Certification in Genetic Counselling
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Work History:
University of Washington in Seattle, University of California in San Fransisco, Personalis Inc. in Silicon Valley, University of Cambridge and NHS Genomic Medicine Centre (East of England) (those are all since uni, I also waitressed, worked in nursing home, had an Avon round, had a paper round, and worked in a bank when I was at school and as a student).
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Current Job:
Education & Training Lead, East of England Genomic Medicine Centre (and Course Director for the Genomic Medicine Masters Programme at the University of Cambridge)
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About Me:
Genetics, genomics, genetic counselling, generally waxing helical….
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I was born in the Highlands, grew up near Liverpool, lived in the US for twelve years (Seattle and San Francisco), and now live in Cambridge. I’m married with two kids (5 and 9), and a dog. I love reading, films, eating nice food (but not cooking it!), arty things, and talking about genetics.
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After years of genetics being mostly in the realm of scientific research, a really exciting thing has happened since 2012 when the government decided to launch the 100,000 genomes project (https://www.genomicsengland.co.uk/). This project has paved the way for genomics to be used far more widely within routine NHS care. From this year the NHS will be using genomics to find answers for patients with rare genetic diseases, many of whom have been waiting to find out what is causing their symptoms for years. We are also starting to use genetic tests to help us personalise the medicine that we prescribe; instead of everyone getting the same medicine, we will use genetic tests to tell us which medicines will work for which people, what dosages they should have, and whether they are likely to get any dangerous side effects. The problem is that most healthcare professionals (doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, etc), have very little, or no, training in genetics. That’s where I come in; my job is to teach everyone who works for the NHS in the East of England and East Midlands about genomics.
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My Typical Day:
Lots of emails, lots of visits to hospitals and colleges, lots of talking!
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My job is all about communication so I write a lot of emails, speak at meetings, present at conferences, produce informational materials and websites, talk to journalists, etc. When I’m not communicating about genetics, I’m organising ways of communicating about genetics.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
Donate it as prize money for a schools innovation project to do with rare genetic disease.
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
passionate, compassionate, feisty
What did you want to be after you left school?
A scientist
Were you ever in trouble at school?
Yes - I was quite a difficult student. I behaved badly due to boredom and as an attempt to not get picked-on for being a swot.
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Ash
What's your favourite food?
Steak and chips, or a Sri Lankan curry
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
Being happy, being healthy, making a difference
Tell us a joke.
I'm really rubbish at jokes, don't put me on the spot!
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