Nicola studied zoology at Bristol university followed by veterinary science at Cambridge and worked as a vet in companion animal and equine practice for 16 years. In 2015 she joined the Veterinary Poisons Information Service answering poisons enquiries from vets and in 2016 was promoted to her current role as head of service. In 2017 she launched Animal PoisonLine, the 24 hour advice line for pet owners run by the VPIS. She is also a trustee at Marwell Zoo and chairs their ethics committee.