Dr Dan Baldock
Lecturer
Biography
Dr Dan Baldock has a background in biochemistry, and has experience in both academia, industry and FE before teaching/researching at the University of Chester. He has previous experience with biochemical techniques, microbiology and drug development, including how to apply this knowledge in an industrial/professional setting. He is involved in the analytical side of teaching, which includes general biology and forensic biology. He also is currently undertaking cross disciplinary research with postgraduate students and external organisations.
Teaching and Supervision
Dr Dan Baldock is involved directly with the Biology degree programme, the Forensic Biology degree programme, and is module leader on two forensic-focused modules that explore the analytical chemistry/biochemistry aspects. He contributes to several other modules and practical sessions, including (but not limited to) Microbiology and Immunology. Currently, he has a PhD student who is exploring the link between hydrogen peroxide disinfection and plant growth in vertical farming systems. He hopes to expand this with additional postgraduate students in the future. He is also the Careers Link Tutor for the department, and has been forming links with internal and external resources to further support students in their future career. He is also qualified in health and safety, and uses this to teach and train as appropriate.
Research and Knowledge Exchange
Current research interests include: 1. Water toxicity analysis and potential applications - this includes vertical farming/hydroponics. 2. Determining microbial contamination in both water and other areas - this includes biofilms/biofouling. 3. Photoreactive antimicrobial compounds, and methods of both delivering and retaining these for treatment options. 4. Identifying and exploring novel compounds that may be used as pesticides, fertilisers etc. 5. Alternative means for forensic toxicology relating to drug isolation and extraction.