After completing a degree in veterinary science and a PhD in marsupial physiology, Leigh worked as a clinician for some years before opening her own veterinary practice.

While working part-time as an academic at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC), she took a casual job as a medical writer. Here she rekindled her love of words and writing, fostered earlier by her family and high school English teachers, and brushed up her skills in writing clear, plain English. This led to a position as Science Writer and Editor at USC, where she helped academic colleagues enliven their research and conference papers, grant proposals, and award applications.

Leigh became an Accredited Editor with the Institute of Professional Editors (IPEd) in 2012. She specialises in scientific and academic editing and writing, but turns her hand to a variety of genres. She is also a published author of research papers and creative short stories.