I’m a microbiologist with leadership experience in public health, having worked in the Canadian government and hospital sector, where we pioneered the use of genome sequencing in outbreak investigations. One of the microbes I’ve worked on extensively is Listeria, a rare cause of foodborne illness that carries significant health and economic consequences when outbreaks occur. A major Listeria outbreak in Canada in 2008 shaped not just how we apply sequencing technology, but also how we structure cross-government collaboration to respond more effectively.
These scientific and leadership interests eventually led me to Norwich. The Quadram Institute at the Norwich Research Park was seeking a new leader for its Listeria research programmes – someone who could bridge the science with food businesses and regulatory authorities in the UK to better understand and control the risk of this pathogen.
But the decision to move wasn’t only professional – it was also deeply personal. Sue and I had two young boys at the time, and we wanted to do something bold. We wanted to give them an amazing childhood, surrounded by history, culture, and sport. Norwich and the East of England have delivered on all counts.
For our family, Norwich has been perfect.
We’ve made it our mission to explore, driving all over England, Wales, and Scotland in search of campsites, hikes, bike trails, and antique shops.
Norwich is perfectly placed: one hour north to the coast, two hours south to London, and three hours to national parks like the Peak District. And somehow, just 30 minutes by air to continental Europe!
This is what probably convinced Sue to make the move….
The moment where we realised Norfolk was right for us.
Norwich is perfectly located and we make sure to make the most of it and explore not only surrounding areas, but Europe as well.
Life in Norwich
We traded ice skates for football boots. While we miss ice hockey, football has connected us to the community in a way we didn’t expect.
Hobbies and Social Groups
Our oldest son has developed a real passion for WWII history, so we often visit military fairs and museums around the region. It’s exactly the kind of opportunity we hoped for when we moved: experiences that would’ve been hard to find back home.
History in NorwichTake the time to explore. Norwich and its surrounding villages – like Wymondham, where we live – each have their own charm. We wanted to be close to the Quadram Institute so I could cycle to work, close to the boys’ schools and sports, and still have quick access to the city centre and the coast.
Once you find your spot and get that “this feels right” moment, set down roots—but don’t stand still. Norwich is the perfect base for exploring the UK and Europe. That’s something we’ve truly made the most of.
And something else we’ve learned: people don’t just move here – those that grew up here often move away for school or work and then come back.
Discover Matt's journey from Canada to Norwich, where science, family, and adventure came together. As a leading microbiologist and expert on Listeria, Matt shares how the Quadram Institute, a love for UK culture, and a bold family move shaped a new life in Norfolk. Perfect for professionals, researchers, and families considering relocation, this inspiring story captures what makes Norwich a place not just to work—but to truly belong.
