Staff profiles

Abdulsalam graduated with a BSc (HONS) Physiotherapy from Bayero University Kano in 2005. He then did internship at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in 2006-2007. He joined clinical carrier with International Clinics and Hospital Kano in 2008 from rotational to the position of specialist in Neurology physiotherapy.

In 2013, He completed a MSc at Bayero University then a PhD in Neurological Physiotherapy at University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2015. Following his passion for teaching and a long history of being a clinical educator, He was appointed as a lecturer (Teaching Fellow) in Physiotherapy at Bayero University kano in September 2015 and continue to hold this post till June 2024. He joined CDUTCM-Keele joint Health and Medical Sciences Institute in July 2024 as a Senior lecturer.

His main areas of research interest are neurological, neuro-musculoskeletal rehabilitation, and clinical education. He is a registered member of the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, and a registered physiotherapist with the MRTBN and HCPC.

Qiu Jingshu Alex is an accomplished English lecturer with six years of EAP/ESP experience in Sino-British Collaborative Programmes. She holds a Master's in Translating and Interpreting from Hong Kong Polytechnic University and CELTA and TESOL certificates.

Currently, Qiu leads the Academic and English Proficiency Module at the CDUTCM-KEELE Joint Health and Medical Sciences Institute. Her teaching excellence has been recognized with multiple awards, including a second prize in the national Innovative Teaching Competition.

Beyond teaching, Qiu contributes to research projects and develops educational materials. Her publications include works on self-assessment in second language teaching and guidance for students studying abroad.

Baizhen Ciren holds an educational background spanning multiple disciplines, including public health, health sciences, education, and social studies, with an undergraduate degree from China and a graduate degree from Norway. Before joining CDUTCM-Keele, she worked as an Assistant Professor at the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences in Norway, where she taught a range of subjects, including public health, food and health, and qualitative research methodology. She has also supervised both bachelor’s and master’s students on their theses and projects. Her research interests lie primarily in the interdisciplinary field of health, focusing on food and meals, sustainable practices, and women’s and child health.

Mr. Thornton is an English Language Fellow, lifelong learner, and current student of philosophy whose interests include language learning, reading, and studying. As a former English Language Fellow, Mr. Thornton wants to encourage language learning and intercultural competence to enhance good relations between China and the West as he prepares his students not just for their education abroad but also to be cultural ambassadors. Mr. Thornton would also like to encourage his students to never stop learning because learning does not stop at graduation. Lastly, Mr. Thornton wants his students to develop critical thinking skills and always question because, as Marcus Aurelius’ famous court physician Galen said, “The best [medical student] is also a philosopher”.

Chad Green is an experienced educator with five years of teaching experience, particularly focused on creative writing and critical thinking. Throughout his career, he has worked with students in various regions of China, helping them develop essential language skills. Chad’s teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to become independent learners, fostering self-confidence, and encouraging them to express their thoughts and ideas clearly in English. By tailoring his lessons to meet individual needs, he ensures that each student not only improves their language proficiency but also gains the tools necessary for personal growth and success in academic and professional settings.

Cherise was born and raised in beautiful South Africa and grew up loving and playing sport with her three older brothers. Her family is the most important thing to her, and she visits her parents and her nieces and nephews during the holiday seasons. She is passionate about teaching and helping Chinese students to “always take one step forward” and has over ten years of teaching experience. She completed her Certificate in Education at the University of Nottingham and has a Bachelors degree in Sports Management. Cherise considers it a privilege to live and teach in China and believes hope and kindness lead the way.

George is a young American university teacher who has been living and teaching English in China for five years. George is dedicated to helping young people, and he strives to boost his students’ academic abilities and self-confidence. He has taught students of all ages, focusing on their personal and academic growth while creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to learn and improve. George believes that education enriches every aspect of life and helps individuals reach their full potential, which is why has a personal mission to provide the best education possible for his students.

Gideon Ashur Seale is an experienced Head of Department and Educator with over 18 years of expertise in teaching English to undergraduate university and high school students in South Africa, New Zealand and China. As a former registered IBO Coordinator and current IFP Level Head, he has been involved in the planning and standardisation of General English, Academic English Proficiency, Academic Seminar and Study Skills, and Academic English for Health and Rehabilitation programs, helping teaching staff and students achieve their academic goals. He holds an Honours Degree in Educational Psychology and a Diploma in Theology. His extensive background in English language courses and his dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment have made him a respected leader and fellow colleague among his peers. Gideon is passionate about reflective practice and continuously seeks innovative ways to enhance his teaching methods to promote inclusivity in the classroom and the workplace.

Jerry Sonenarong has been teaching in China since 2011. He worked at Golden Apple for 3 years, Jiaxiang Foreign Language School for 2 years, SWUFE for 3 years, then CDUT for 1 year and now currently at CDUTCM. He holds a BA from University of Connecticut in Anthropology. He also has a CELTA since Jan 2021.

Zheng Li has 12 years experience of teaching Chinese students academic writing and seminar skills in Sino-British joint programmes. Her doctorate research is about developing creative and critical thinking of EAL students in academic writing. Her passion is to provide effective support to our students in their academic studies in our programme.

Public health Management Programme Lead
Margaret Macherera Holds a PhD in Public Health from the University of Kwazulu Natal, a Master of International Health from the University of Copenhagen and a Bachelor of technology in Environmental Health. Margaret has worked as a Public health practitioner for 13 years before joining academia. She has worked in several universities for over 20 years and has held senior positions from program coordinator to departmental chairperson. She has been external examiner for various universities. Margaret is a published researcher in the field of public health. Research interests include, One health, Food safety, WASH and communicable diseases.

Mark is an experienced leader in international higher education and Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, with a passion for empowering others through effective coaching and mentoring, to help students, teachers and leaders from a wide variety of backgrounds grow in their roles and maximise their potential.

Mark completed his undergraduate studies at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, his CELTA with Language Link in Beijing, and his PGCIE and MA in Education with Staffordshire University while in Chengdu. Mark is currently studying towards a PhD in Education with Staffordshire University. Mark has been in Chengdu since 2008 and joined CDUTCM-Keele Joint Health and Medical Sciences Institute when it was launched in 2023.

Matt, from England, has been working as a teacher for over 12 years. 10 years of which were teaching in various Universities in Chengdu. He holds a Masters in Education and has extensive experience preparing students for international study. In his free time he enjoys learning the keyboard, music production and motorbike riding. His adventures on the motorbike have taken him to various areas of Sichuan and beyond. The favourite destination for his riding has been Western Sichuan, exploring the mountains and grasslands. Career wise he hopes to continue improving his own skills, whilst supporting students at CDUTCM and KEELE university to become wise, intelligent and effective lifelong learners.

Miciotto Oshane Johnson II, is an accomplished and well-traveled individual from the U.S.A. With over nine years of experience teaching English, Miciotto has developed a passion for helping others learn and communicate across cultures. His journeys have taken him to more than 30 countries, where he's gained a wealth of knowledge and insight. Beyond his professional life, Miciotto has a deep love for music, literature, and the outdoors, finding inspiration and peace in them all. Whether exploring new landscapes or enjoying the melodies of his favorite tunes, he embodies a balance of adventure and creativity.

Wan Min has earned a Master of Sports Translation from Chengdu Sports University. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of English degree from the same institution, where she developed a deep understanding of the English language. Committed to teaching, Wan Min has also acquired the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA), a testament to her expertise in language instruction. Currently, she is pursuing a Post Graduate Certificate in(International) Education (PGCiE), showcasing her ambition to contribute to the global educational community. Her academic and professional pursuits reflect a passion for language, and the continuous pursuit of educational excellence.

Zara Devlin was a Registered General Nurse in the UK, and began teaching in China in 2022. With a strong background in healthcare, Zara brings a unique perspective to the classroom as the current Module Leader for General English for Health & Rehabilitation Sciences at CDUTCM-Keele Sino-British Collaborative. Her transition from nursing to education has been marked by a commitment to fostering student success and adapting healthcare-related insights to language learning. Alongside her teaching responsibilities, Zara is pursuing a Masters in Public Health, furthering her expertise in the field. Her passion for health and education drives her work, making her a key contributor to both academic and professional development at Keele University.

Zime Phungula, originally from South Africa, has dedicated the past six years to teaching in China. In her free time, she enjoys engaging in Chinese dramas, delving into books, and cherishing moments with her beloved dog. Her academic journey began with a focus on drama and performance, eventually leading her to pursue a career in teaching. With extensive experience spanning various age groups, from kindergarten to tertiary education, Zime is a passionate educator who firmly believes in the values of hard work, commitment, and dedication to enhancing student learning. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to guide new students and facilitate their transition from high school to university.

Dr. Zsolt Murlasits earned his BSc degree from Montclair State University, his MSc from The University of Memphis, and finally completed his PhD at West Virginia University in 2005. He then pursued postdoctoral research at the University of Florida focusing on exercise-induced cardioprotection. Before joining CDUTCM-Keele Joint Health and Medical Sciences Institute, he was an educator and researcher at various universities in the United States, Qatar, and Hungary. Dr. Murlasits has been teaching in higher education institutions since 1998, having taught more than 15 different sport science courses. During this period, he has also served as a mentor and as a member of various academic committees. In addition, he has gained practical coaching experience in strength and conditioning, along with research work in the field of exercise and health science, working with a wide range of individuals from older adults to elite athletes.