What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
I studied Chemistry, Biology and English literature at A-level. I had no idea what I wanted to be at 16! So I chose the subjects I was best at.
What degree/PhD did you study?
I completed an MBChB (Hons) in Medicine, followed by a 1st Class BSc (Hons) in Human Anatomy and Cell Biology during my intercalated year. I then went on to complete a PhD in Pharmacology at the University of Liverpool.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I was fascinated by the interaction between medicines and the human body—how we develop new treatments, how drugs work differently for different people, and how we balance benefits and risks. Clinical pharmacology combined my interests in science, medicine, and public health in a way that felt really useful.
What key skills did you learn at university?
Critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. I also learned how to lead, listen, and ask better questions.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I’ve been a junior doctor, academic clinical fellow, NIHR clinical lecturer, senior lecturer, and now a professor. I’ve also held roles as Deputy Director of a Clinical Research Facility, co-lead of national and international research programmes, and consultant physician. My work spans NHS clinical care, cutting-edge research, leadership, and teaching.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I’m Professor of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics and Honorary Consultant in General Internal Medicine. I love the variety – from mentoring students and leading AI-driven research to working directly with patients with complex multimorbidity. Seeing how research translates into better care is incredibly rewarding.
Do you have an area of expertise / research?
My expertise lies in polypharmacy, multimorbidity, deprescribing, medicines optimisation, and the use of AI and machine learning for complex clinical decision-making. I lead innovative projects like DynAIRx, using health data to improve safety and outcomes in real-world populations.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
Co-leading the DynAIRx programme, which uses AI to support dynamic prescribing for people with multiple long-term conditions, has been transformational. We’re helping clinicians make better decisions for complex patients—it’s the future of personalised care.
What are your top tips for working in your industry/sector?
Collaborate across disciplines—you’ll learn more than you expect. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or challenge the norm; that’s where innovation begins.
Why are you passionate about your subject / career / STEM?
Because it changes lives. Whether through safer medicines, improved patient care, or mentoring the next generation, my work has purpose. STEMM gives us tools to solve real-world problems—and as a clinician scientist, I get to help shape a better future.
Find out more about Lauren, and keep up to date with her work on:
LinkedIn
University Profile
The trials and tribulations of a Clinical Pharmacologist: Listen here