He was awarded a competitive scholarship from the Irish Research Council to investigate the regulation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Associated Degradation at the University College Cork, Republic of Ireland. Following this, he was a recipient of a prestigious Wellcome Trust to investigate mechanisms of trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer at University of Liverpool, UK. Trastuzumab is the gold standard treatment, but clinical resistance is posing a serious challenge. His research investigated the role of WASH, a regulator of endocytic trafficking, in modulating sensitivity to the drug. He was responsible for the generation of a probe to monitor trafficking of the HER2 receptor at the surface. He developed a strong understanding of flow cytometry, breast cancer, the endocytic system, and cell signalling. He was involved in the development of a review of endocytic trafficking.
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Bryan has a strong interest in science communication and dissemination. He presented his research at the American Society for Cell Biology symposium in Washington D.C. in 2019. He worked as a demonstrator and tutor for undergraduate students; motivating them through the practical and theoretical elements of biochemistry (a very misunderstood aspect of the life sciences!). He has also worked as teaching assistant at secondary level for students with complex needs. He is also writing a memoir discussing his experience working in research laboratories and public perception of research science. He hopes to pursue an exciting career in medical writing in North America.
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