Dr Lauren Phillips

Background

Dr Lauren Phillips studied in biological sciences where she became fascinated with the world of genetics and how changes to our DNA can affect our body’s form and function. She gained diverse research experience whilst investigating novel genetic causes of limb girdle muscular dystrophy using whole exome and whole genome sequencing, before securing a PhD studentship to identify novel genetic causes of Congenital Heart Disease and Cardiomyopathies. 

Following the completion of her PhD at Newcastle University in 2021, she joined the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Oxford as a British Heart Foundation funded postdoctoral researcher investigating the mechanism of myoendothelial feedback within the microvasculature in Professor Kim Dora and Professor Chris Garland’s laboratory. In February 2023, Lauren joined Magdalen College as a Fellow by Examination. She is currently in a new role within the college as Dean for Welfare and Fellow by Special Election.

Research

Lauren’s is research investigates normal form and function of the cardiovascular system, and how this is altered during disease.  This currently involves characterising the mechanisms of vasoconstriction and relaxation within the microvasculature to identify potential therapeutic targets for diseases including hypertension, coronary heart disease and heart failure.

Dean for Welfare

Lauren has overall responsibility for welfare provision in the College. She is available to listen to the concerns of junior members and direct them to the most appropriate source of support. She also works alongside the Senior Dean to help any junior member who requires financial assistance. For more information on her role within the welfare team please visit the College’s Welfare and Wellbeing page.