Using Conditional Transgenic Models

Lydia has over 25 years of experience of mouse genome engineering, with expertise in both classical and genome editing methods. She introduced the use of the CRISPR/Cas9 system at the MLC in 2013 and has employed these tools in both a high throughput process for the generation of null mice and a bespoke activity for the generation of point mutations and more complex mouse models. Her team has also defined quality control criteria and reliable protocols to validate mutants generated using CRISPR/Cas9 and classical tools. Lydia manages genome engineering activities and the development of new in vitro service platforms at the MLC. She has also helped to write the international guidelines for the reporting of the genetics of laboratory animals.

Through her involvement with the Advance Training Centre, Lydia brings extensive experience in molecular biology, helping to support the community in designing, creating and using genetically altered animals.

Michelle Stewart is the Scientific Manager at the Mary Lyon Centre at MRC Harwell. She began her career at the MLC in 2004 as an animal technician, quickly progressing to NACWO and ward manager before taking on the role of Scientific Manager in 2013.

Alongside her professional duties, Michelle completed a part-time degree in Cell and Molecular Biology, followed by a PhD in Neurobehavioural Genetics, which she was awarded in 2019.

Michelle has more than 20 years of experience working with genetically altered mice, with particular expertise in complex breeding strategies, colony management, phenotyping, and all aspects of licensing. In her current role, she oversees the full operation of the animal facility at the Mary Lyon Centre, including husbandry, in-vivo studies such as dosing and phenotyping, gene delivery, and rederivation.

She works closely with both external researchers and internal teams to support and deliver high-quality in-vivo research for academic groups, biotech companies, and pharmaceutical partners across the UK. Michelle is deeply passionate about genetics and is committed to training and mentoring both animal technicians and researchers, promoting best practice and ensuring that the use of animals in research is conducted to the highest scientific and ethical standards.