About Dr Lata Gautam
PhD, MSc, BSc, SFHEA, MRSC - Dr Lata Gautam is a Forensic Science educator, analytical toxicologist, and drugs chemist with more than two decades of international experience in forensic research, teaching, and public engagement. She currently works as an Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), where she also contributes to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, having previously worked as Race Equality Lead for the Faculty of Science and Engineering (2022–2024). Her research expertise lies in analytical toxicology and forensic chemistry, particularly the detection and profiling of drugs of abuse and pharmaceuticals in biological and environmental matrices. Dr Gautam’s work spans drink spiking and drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA), integrating scientific rigour with community outreach. Before joining ARU, Dr Gautam worked at the National Forensic Science Laboratory in Nepal, where she developed a strong foundation in forensic analysis and scientific training.
Education
- PGCE, Higher Education - Anglia Ruskin University, UK (2009)
- PhD, Forensic Science - Anglia Ruskin University, UK (2007)
- MSc, Botany - Tribhuvan University, Nepal (1998)
- BSc, Microbiology - Tri Chandra College, Nepal (1996)
Affiliations
- Associate Professor, School of Life Sciences, ARU (2020–present)
- Principal/Senior Lecturer, ARU (2011–2020)
- Lecturer, ARU (2008–2011)
- Race Equality Lead, FSE, ARU (Jan 2022 – Jul 2024)
- National Forensic Science Laboratory, Nepal (1997–2001)