Nikolina Zhelyazkova

Nikki initially studied Microbiology and Biotechnology at Edinburgh Napier University, where her passion for bacteria began, working on projects ranging from bacterial sequencing with the MinION to isolating microbes in search of novel antimicrobials. Afterwards, she further developed her interest in bacteria by undertaking an infection biology master’s degree with a specialization in bacteriology. Her masters project worked with Clostridium difficile to investigate how infections may be suppressed by the healthy microbiota. After graduating, in order to experience other aspects of bacteriology, Nikki volunteered her time in the NHS Meningococcal testing laboratory in Glasgow. During this time, she further developed her passion about sustainability and environmentalisms, which led to her joining the Celtic Renewables team.