Dr Neil Byrnes

Department of Chemistry

Dr. Neil Byrnes is a Canadian pharmacist and postdoctoral Research Associate with an interdisciplinary background in pharmacy and analytical chemistry focused on advancing research at the intersection of chemistry, environmental health, and public health within a One Health framework.

Neil graduated from the University of Toronto (Canada) in 2014 with a BSc in Pharmacy. Through years of clinical practice, he supported patients in achieving optimal health outcomes through evidence-based care. He also has experience in healthcare governance as he served on the Board of Directors for a hospital, long-term care home, and family health team.

In 2018, Neil completed an MSc in Analytical Toxicology at King’s College London, graduating with Distinction. He completed his Master’s research project at Abbott Toxicology where he worked on the development of an analytical method using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry to detect drugs of abuse in oral fluid and applied this method to conduct a drug prevalence study.

In 2026, Neil earned his PhD in Chemistry through the joint global PhD programme offered by Monash University (Australia) and the University of Bath. In collaboration with Bangor University, Cardiff University, and the Welsh Government, his research found a high risk of both antimicrobial resistance emergence and potential environmental harm caused by antimicrobial residues in wastewater across Wales. Hospitals were identified as a significant source of antimicrobials in wastewater, further highlighting the need for comprehensive national action. In Australia, his research applied comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometry to examine cannabinoids and pyrethrin pesticides, two naturally occurring chemicals, and identified the unique capabilities, applications, and limitations of this technology.

In his current role, Neil is completing research on the Cam and Wellow Brook Partnership Project—a project supported by the Water Industry National Environment Programme. In collaboration with Wessex Water, Bath and North East Somerset Council, Bristol Avon Rivers Trust, and the Environment Agency, he aims to integrate his clinical experience and analytical chemistry expertise to assess environmental and public health risks from chemical contaminants in the local water catchment, inform evidence-based interventions, monitor their impact, and assist in the development of a One Health Platform.

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