Nicki graduated from Bristol Vet School in 2000, and stayed on to undertake an internship and then residency in veterinary anaesthesia. In 2005, she moved to Liverpool Vet School to undertake a three year lectureship post, becoming head of division in 2007.
After leaving Liverpool, Nicki locumed at the Animal Health Trust, the Royal Veterinary College, and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. She completed her PhD in analgesia at Bristol University and holds the RCVS Certificate and Diploma in Veterinary Anaesthesia, and is also a European Diplomate in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia. She ran the anaesthesia service at Cave Veterinary Specialists for 8 years and is now an independent anaesthesia consultant.