Peter Massey

Experienced science educator, programme lead and former research scientist with a strong record across sixth-form, further education and higher education.

Currently Laboratory Science Programme

Lead at New College Swindon, with teaching experience across A Level Biology, BTEC Applied Science, T Level Laboratory Science and Higher National provision. PGCE-qualified, with a PhD in Neuroscience and more than 15 years' previous experience in university and pharmaceutical research. Particularly strong in making challenging scientific concepts accessible, designing purposeful practical work and helping learners develop confidence, independence and sound scientific reasoning.

Extensive first-hand experience of experimental science enables curriculum content to be connected meaningfully to contemporary research, laboratory practice and scientific careers. Committed to high expectations alongside supportive, inclusive teaching, and to preparing students effectively for university, apprenticeships and employment.

Laboratory Science Programme Lead at New College Swindon (2025-08 – Present)

Lead and develop Laboratory Science and Higher National provision while maintaining direct involvement in science teaching, assessment and student support.

• Lead curriculum planning, delivery coordination and quality assurance for laboratory science provision.
• Develop teaching plans, curriculum documentation and learning resources aligned with awarding-body requirements.
• Support delivery across applied biology, chemistry, laboratory techniques, scientific data handling, regulation and quality, work-based learning and research.
• Design vocationally relevant learning and assessment that develops scientific reasoning, technical competence and professional behaviours.
• Support learner progress, progression and the development of independent study skills.
• Coordinate provision across specialist science facilities at Queen's Drive and the Institute of Technology at North Star.
• Work with colleagues, HE teams and curriculum managers to maintain teaching quality and improve student experience.

Science Lecturer at New College Swindon (2022-01 – 2025-08)

Taught and assessed across A Level Biology, BTEC Applied Science and T Level Laboratory Science.

• Planned and delivered engaging theory and practical science teaching.
• Prepared schemes of work, lesson materials, assessments and laboratory activities.
• Explained complex biological and scientific ideas to learners with differing starting points and levels of confidence.
• Used practical work to reinforce theoretical understanding and develop scientific competence.
• Assessed student work and provided clear, developmental feedback.
• Monitored progress and supported students requiring additional intervention.
• Provided tutorials, enrichment and pastoral support.
• Helped students develop the independence, study skills and scientific literacy needed for successful progression.
• Contributed to curriculum development and continuous improvement of science teaching resources.
• Connected curriculum content to authentic examples from scientific research and industry.

Science Technician and Variable Hours Lecturer at Wiltshire College, Department of Health and Life Sciences (2019-01 – 2022-12)

Combined science teaching with technical laboratory responsibilities across three campuses. Teaching included Access to HE Biology, BTEC Applied Science, Forensic Science, Foundation Degree Biomedical Science and Foundation Degree Environmental Science and Sustainability.

• Planned and delivered theory and practical teaching across biological and applied sciences.
• Prepared schemes of work, lesson plans and assessment materials.
• Supported learners progressing towards university and scientific employment.
• Designed and prepared laboratory activities, demonstrations and practical resources.
• Provided technical support to teaching staff across a broad science curriculum.
• Prepared scientific equipment, materials and reagents; completed risk assessments and supported safe laboratory practice.
• Supported student enrichment, progression and pastoral needs.

Senior Neurophysiologist at Eli Lilly R&D (2017-01 – 2018-12)

Conducted pharmaceutical neuroscience research into neural dysfunction associated with Alzheimer's disease and the effects of potential therapeutic compounds.

• Planned and carried out experimental electrophysiology.
• Collected, analysed and interpreted complex scientific data.
• Presented findings within a multidisciplinary research environment and contributed new experimental approaches.

Research Associate at Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University (2015-01 – 2016-12)

Worked on a GlaxoSmithKline-funded project investigating neuronal network function and hyperexcitability.

• Conducted electrophysiological research using human and animal brain tissue.
• Collaborated with clinicians and scientific researchers; analysed and presented experimental findings.
• Supported undergraduate and postgraduate learners and contributed to novel experimental approaches.

Research Officer at University of Bath (2011-01 – 2014-12)

Developed experimental models of epilepsy using organotypic brain tissue cultures.

• Designed, planned and conducted experimental research; analysed and communicated findings.
• Managed aspects of laboratory health and safety and presented research at scientific conferences.
• Supported and supervised doctoral researchers.

Research Associate at MRC Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, University of Bristol (2001-01 – 2010-12)

Conducted research into learning, memory and synaptic plasticity on major Wellcome Trust and Medical Research Council-funded programmes.

• Used electrophysiology, behavioural neuroscience and histological techniques.
• Designed studies, analysed data and prepared research for peer-reviewed publication.
• Presented work at conferences and seminars and contributed to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and supervision.

PhD in Neuroscience – University of Bristol (1998-01 – 2001-12)

BSc in Neuroscience – University of Sheffield (1995-01 – 1998-12)

HND in Higher National Diploma – University of the West of England, Bristol (1994-01 – 1996-12)