Dr Anna Tang

Profile

I am a translational molecular and cellular biologist working at the interface of molecular biology, protein engineering, and diagnostic innovation. My research focuses on engineered non‑antibody affinity reagents, particularly Adhiron/Affimer scaffolds, and their application to molecular discovery, bacterial detection, and point‑of‑care diagnostics.

I am currently an EPSRC‑funded Research Fellow specialising in phage display, leading the development of Adhiron‑based affinity reagents for bacterial detection and identification. This work aims to enable rapid, multiplex lateral flow diagnostics for urinary tract infections, contributing to improved diagnostic capability and antimicrobial stewardship in the context of antimicrobial resistance.

I bring over 20 years’ experience across academic research, biotech, medtech, and regulated industrial R&D environments. Prior to my current role, I spent more than a decade as a Senior Research Technician at the University of Leeds, where I played a central role in establishing and advancing Adhiron/Affimer discovery pipelines and supporting academic–industry collaborations, including work with Avacta Life Sciences.

Alongside my technical and translational work, I completed a part‑time PhD investigating SH3 domain protein–protein interactions using Affimer technology. This research generated mechanistic insights into cell‑signalling pathways, particularly within the Ras signalling network, and contributed to a strong publication record spanning affinity reagent engineering, protein–protein interaction biology, and translational applications.

My career also includes substantial industrial experience within GLP/GMP‑compliant and ISO‑certified laboratories. I have contributed to biologics development and to in vitro diagnostic medical devices, including automated immunoassays that achieved CE‑marking and FDA clearance. I am motivated by research that translates molecular insight into clinically and commercially impactful technologies.

Research interests

• Engineered scaffold proteins and renewable affinity reagents (Adhiron/Affimer technologies)
• Phage display library design, selection, and screening strategies
• Bacterial detection and identification technologies
• Point‑of‑care and lateral flow diagnostic development
• Protein–protein interactions and cell‑signalling biology (SH2/SH3 domains, Ras pathway)
• Translational approaches to antimicrobial resistance
• Application of engineered proteins in diagnostics and biotherapeutics

Qualifications

• PhD Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds (2023)
• BSc (Hons) Molecular Biology, Newcastle University (2002)