My name is Dr. Mandy Hartley. I have always loved science and even at school I knew this was the career path I wanted to pursue. I have a PhD in Genetics and have had an amazing career working with DNA for over 15 years. I have used DNA to help conserve stocks of haddock and sandeels in the North Sea and to find out the genetic cause of diseases in patients with neonatal diabetes, haemophilia, breast cancer, cystic fibrosis and different kidney diseases. I also helped set up the forensic laboratories used by the Norfolk Constabulary, worked on criminal cases and helped trace long lost families using relationship testing.

I now regularly run workshops to teach primary and secondary school children about DNA. I also use stories to teach difficult concepts such as natural selection, inheritance and evolution to children. I am currently getting funding for my GSCE Genetics workshop which will provide an applied approach to secondary pupils allowing them to see how the genetics they are learning about is used in the industry.

I am in the process of creating a science laboratory in Norfolk for children aged 4 years - 18 years. It will be a state of the art laboratory offering children in this area hands-on experience of methods currently used in the field of genetics. In addition, it will be a great opportunity for children of all ages to experience workshops for all aspects of science in a real laboratory.

My first book “The DNA Detectives – To Catch a Thief” was recently published with the second book planned to come out in June next year. These are the first books for 7 – 12 year olds where the characters in the book use DNA to solve a crime. The idea is that children enjoy the exciting story and at the same time they are learning about DNA, cells and forensic science.

I have been so lucky with my career which has come from my love of science and now I get to share that with children and hopefully inspire our next generation of scientists and geneticists.