About

I have been an Associate Lecturer at the University of Derby for the last seven years, leading across a variety of modules across the MA and BA Creative Writing. I have also taught media modules both at the University of Derby and at De Montfort University. Currently I am also working as a research assistant on the Dracula Returns to Derby project, celebrating the centenary of the stage premiere of Dracula in the city in 1924.

Teaching responsibilities

I have been involved in the Creative Writing programme over the last seven years, and have led and taught on modules including Introduction to Professional Writing, Professional Writing for Publication, Different Modes for Different Media, Portfolio Project and Writing Apprenticeship.

Professional interests

I've had a long interest in horror fiction and film, which has been a key area of research and study for both my fiction and non-fiction work. I have also been heavily involved in the genre events scene in the UK, originating and running both the Edge-Lit and UK Ghost Story Festival events in Derby, as well as a wide range of online events and festivals including Darkness in the Fields and Winter Haunts.

Qualifications

• 2:1 in Creative Writing with European Studies, University of Derby

Experience in industry

I am actively involved in the writing industry in many guises since leaving University twenty years ago, taking in roles in Literature Development and event management, working within publishing with Black Library/Solaris, and running my own small press (Boo Books, based in Derby) and proofreading, editing and mentoring services. I have also been actively running writing workshops and courses over the last fifteen years, culminating in my role teaching at the University of Derby. As a writer, I have had a science-fiction novel published (The Last War) as well as a non-fiction book looking at the powerful but controversial French horror film Martyrs.

Recent publications

• Weekly research blog for Dracula Returns to Derby
• Monthly non-fiction article for Writing Magazine