Starr is the Senior Project Manager for the UKRI/MRC funded UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative, which aims to advance our understanding of how genomic variation influences human physiology and how it changes over time and in disease. £28.5m in funding for Human Functional Genomics Initiative – UKRI

Prior to this, she was the Department Manager for Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, part of the University of Exeter Medical School in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, where she supported the Head of Department in delivering the strategic and operational priorities of the department.

She has previously worked as Research Project Manager for the Exeter Centre of Excellence for Diabetes Research (EXCEED), managing a £6m award from Research England to expand the world-renowned diabetes research team in Exeter as part of their Expanding Excellence in England programme.

Starr joined the University in 2018, following a career in recruitment and training. Initially joining as a Recruitment Lead in Human Resources, she led on recruitment strategies and planning for both academic departments and professional services.

In 2023 she completed IfATE Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, and has a BSc Hons in Responsible Business Management, and Level 6 Diploma in Professional Management and Leadership Practice. Starr has also completed the Aurora Women in Leadership in Higher Education programme, and has mentored several colleagues through the programme.

Before joining the University she spent 5 years with a social enterprise, as a Perinatal Educator and a National Trainer where she gained her NVQ in Education and Training. Prior to this, Starr has spent time working as a Recruitment Specialist in the Finance and Accountancy sector and the Civil Service. It was at this time she completed the Diploma in Recruitment Practice. Starr also has a BA Hons degree (2:1) in International Studies, gained in 2006.