Freddie's path to science was unique, starting as a chef and then moving into the wine industry, where he discovered a deep-rooted passion for microbes and fermentation. This fascination led him back to academia, culminating in a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Cambridge. At Cambridge, he immersed himself in the study of GC-rich organisms, biosynthetic assembly lines, and the forefront of synthetic biology. 

Outside work, Freddie maintains a passion for food and wine, often spending time in his allotment, reflecting his enduring interests. He's an avid outdoor enthusiast, regularly engaging in trail running, tennis, and cricket.