|
What is virology?
Virology is the study of viruses, the tiny life forms that can only
exist and multiply within other living cells. It includes the study
of their physical and genetic structures and how they cause disease.
The aim of much virology research is the prevention and cure of
vial disease through vaccination and treatment.
What is your PhD about?
I am investigating the genetics of cytomegalovirus (CMV), a member
of the herpes group of viruses. It is widespread in the community
and is harmless to most people. However, some people are at high
risk of problems caused by CMV such as children who are infected
in the womb, AIDS patients and transplant recipients. My findings
might help to develop a vaccine in the future
Why did you choose your degree course?
I have been interested in science since I was a small child when
I was always trying to find out how nature and machines worked.
At school I particularly enjoyed biology and I was fascinated by
micro-organisms, as they are capable of causing very powerful effects
on humans and the world around us.
What prompted your decision to do a PhD?
I enjoyed doing my independent research project as an undergraduate
and I preferred this to the work experience in the hospital lab.
I decided to follow a career in research and for this I needed to
do a PhD.
What aspect of your work gives you the most job satisfaction?
I really enjoy my research. I have a great feeling of satisfaction
when an experiment goes well and the results are better than expected.
I enjoy analysing the raw data and drawing conclusions which may
have implications for the future treatment of patients. I also enjoy
doing novel research and the feeling I get when I am the first person
to carry out a particular assay.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to continue in research and stay in the North West
of England. I aim to continue work as a researcher after finishing
my PhD and then eventually become a university lecturer.
|
