ApconiX Welcomes Jessica Ferguson
Academic career
Jess Ferguson studied biology with an integrated master’s degree at the University of Manchester. During her MSc, she joined Pebble Biotechnology Laboratories as a Research Technician. Pebble, located in Styal, Greater Manchester, is a pre-clinical CRO specialising in ex vivo research. During Jess’ masters project, she studied the effect of mammographic density on breast cancer, looking specifically at the overexpression of the MISP gene in EPH4 cells. These cells were grown in different Matrigel environments of varying stiffness, and their behaviour was analysed over a period of a two months. During this time, Jess gained experience in molecular biology as well as 3D cell-culture.
Following her graduation in 2023, Pebble offered a full-time position to Jess, a role split between Research Technician and Business Development Officer. As research technician Jess conducted pre-clinical ex-vivo research using normothermic machine perfusion, aiding Pebble with their different products. As BD Officer, Jess set up a CRM system, managed business leads taking client calls, and helped Pebble launch their first product and target specific clientele. She also represented the company at their stall at the London Biotech Show.
At University, Jess also gained valuable experience in scientific writing and public outreach as part of The Mancunion, a student newspaper run by the University of Manchester Student Union. She wrote about the animal research lab at the University and supported the laboratory in being more transparent about their use of animals to support biomedical research.
Working at ApconiX
After a year in her full-time position, Jess wanted to gain new scientific skills and transition into different areas of the preclinical CRO space, with a particular interest in toxicology. Being based in Alderley Park during her time at University, Jess had heard of ApconiX already, but it’s a discussion with a friend working at the University of Birmingham in toxicology, who mentioned working with Nicholas Coltman, that pushed Jess to get in touch with ApconiX. Over a couple of discussions, she became really interested in the Safety Science group and applied to join the team.
Jess is now working with Dr Nicholas Coltman and Dr Hannah Dixon within the Data Science team. She will focus on improving and streamlining the processes within the TSA framework, ensuring efficiency in operations. She has further honed her skills in R’ programming, script writing and bioinformatics and is currently working on several projects as part of the continual enhancement of the Acuity TSA service offering.
Hannah, Data Science Lead, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Jess Ferguson to the Safety Science team at ApconiX. With a background in molecular biology and bioinformatics, Jess has already made significant impact in streamlining and refining our TSA framework. Jess brings valuable technical talent which will enhance our bioinformatic capabilities, supporting complex data-driven safety assessments. Beyond her technical expertise, Jess is a thoughtful and collaborative team member, bringing both enthusiasm and a proactive mindset to every challenge. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to seeing her continued growth and contributions to our team’s success.”
Interests outside of Work
Jess has always been a musician. She can play the flute, the piano, the guitar and the Ukulele. She sung opera at University and now plays in a band. When she’s not busy with music, Jess also likes to stay active: she is currently training for Manchester’s half-marathon in October, and when she goes back to Devon to see her parents, they often go hiking. Jess also has another part-time job at a pub once a week, to help the owner whom she has known since University.
