Trained as a nuclear geochemist, with over 3 decades of experience in the multi-disciplinary science underpinning radioactive waste management. Presently dividing time between consulting and teaching. Previous responsibility, as a member of the Nagra Management Team, for the Swiss national waste management programme and, as Director of the International Services and Projects Division, for the development of international consulting services, the operation of the Grimsel Test Site and the foundation of the ITC school.

After qualifying as a solicitor in Scotland and holding positions as a court clerk and legal executive in England, moved to Switzerland in 1983 where she studied German and worked as a freelance translator. Employed by Nagra in 1985 as a technical translator and has now worked for Nagra for 24 years, holding various positions including Coordinator of Translation Services and, most recently, responsibility for Information and Documentation Services. Since 2005, when she co-founded the company, she has also acted as an executive consultant for McKinley Consulting.