Fellow: Lawton
Elected: 2021
Discipline: Organismal and Environmental Biology
Professor Linda Lawton
Professor of Environmental Microbiology, Robert Gordon University
Professor Lawton is an Environmental Microbiologist who studies cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and the powerful toxins (cyanotoxins) that they produce in ponds, lakes and reservoirs. This has led her to develop methods to detect the toxins so that people and animals can be protected. Furthermore, she explores new and exciting water treatment approaches to destroy these dangerous compounds before they can enter our drinking water with project based in Brazil and Sri Lanka. In the laboratory much of her focus is on understanding how the toxins are produced and in mass culture to ensure the supply of purified cyanotoxins to support international research.
I enjoy science out reach work with children and their families through community events and school visits. I also have a passion for mentoring more junior individuals to help advance their career, develop their confidence while ensuring work/life balance.