Operational staff
Learn more about the people who work to support the researchers and the Executive Leadership Team.
Cheryl Handford
Laboratory Manager
Cheryl Handford has more than 25 years’ experience working within leading research laboratories throughout Australia. These included: The Garvan Medical Research Institute, Monash Institute of Medical Research and several laboratories within the University of Sydney. Cheryl’s research skills are in molecular biology and cell culture, and for the past ten years she has specialised in laboratory management.
Dr Cilla Zhou
Science Communications & Media Manager
Cilla graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Neuroscience) in 2015 at the University of Sydney, before joining Professor Jonathon Arnold’s lab to complete a Graduate Diploma in 2016. Her graduate diploma project assessed the anti-trauma effects of cannabinoids in a mouse model of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She completed her PhD in 2022, with Professor Jonathon Arnold, investigating the broader implications of cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory agents in a variety of central nerous system diseases. Cilla is particularly interested in how chronic drug therapies instigate more long-term changes in brain biology and hopes this will lead to the discovery of novel therapeutics in PTSD and epilepsy.
After submitting her thesis, Cilla has stayed at the Lambert Initiative in a new role, utilising her skills in science communications to manage media and assist with clinical trial recruitment strategy.
Sharon Herzog
Administration Officer
Sharon Herzog has over 25 years experience as a senior executive assistant providing support to senior executives. Sharon’s extensive experience includes The Art Gallery of NSW, EY and Deloitte Consulting. Sharon is also a certified health coach and is passionate about the wellness of people. She is also an avid yogi and likes running, being in nature and riding her motorcycle.