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What is your PhD about?
Growing genetically modified yeast in fermenters to produce proteins
for use in medicine. We are using cutting edge techniques to improve
the process.
What prompted your decision to do a PhD?
I did a Masters course (MSc) to decide whether I really wanted to
commit myself to a PhD. The course included a period in industry
and experience in research.
After completing my MSc, I secured a Ph.D project in the subject
area that really interests me. It is sponsored by a company, (CASE
award) and I hope that future employers will look on this favourably.
Why did you choose your degree course?
I started a BEng in chemical engineering in 1995 but found that
it did not match my interests. After speaking to lecturers, I swapped
to the process biotechnology course which incorporated some basic
chemical engineering and biotechnology, including microbiology and
environmental science. I also did an industrial year with two placements:
as analytical chemist for Cargill PLC and as a laboratory assistant
for Geochem. Neither of these placements were in subjects directly
related to my degree course but it broadened my experience of science
in general - which can only be a good thing.
Would you recommend a sandwich course to other students?
Yes, it is a very important step in becoming a professional scientist.
It shows that not only are you academically able but you can also
work well in a laboratory. The sandwich placement also prepares
you for your final year research project. It gives an edge to your
work and improves your practical laboratory skills.
Also, employers look favourably on candidates with a bit of work
experience. After my first job as an analytical chemist it was much
easier to find the next position. Staff from recruitment agencies
have told me that people who have completed a PhD straight from
their degree with no sandwich year can sometimes struggle to find
work.
Is it hard to cope with the maths on an engineering based course?
My first degree was about ¼ chemical engineering and
¾ biotechnology (I did not do A-level biology.) My A-level
grades weren't great, but it didn't stop me coping with the maths
in my degree course which included modules to get us up to speed
in engineering mathematics. I actually found that studying for my
maths A-level was harder than the degree modules.
Some people entered the degree course from science access courses
and do not have A-levels as admission qualifications.
They were also able to cope with the maths.
What aspect of your work gives you the most job satisfaction?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is publishing my research to
be read by the scientific community and also presenting work to
my peers. I feel that my work makes a real difference, because most
biomanufacturing includes producing therapeutic agents which can,
or will, be used to treat illnesses. Fortunately for me, I get paid
to do something I've always wanted to do - even though it is quite
demanding it is very rewarding.
What are your plans for the future?
There may be a possibility of a postdoctoral position with the world
renowned Cancer Studies department at the University of Birmingham.
I hope to continue work started in my PhD and the proteins will
be used to treat patients with compromised immune systems. If we
can't get funding to do this, I shall go back to Merseyside where
there are many job opportunities in biomanufacturing.
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