What did you study at A-level equivalent and why did you select those subjects?
I studied Maths, English, Biology, Chemistry, and Graphic Communication at Higher level, then continued with Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Graphic Communication at Advanced Higher level. I chose these subjects simply because I enjoyed them – I had no idea what I wanted to do once I left school!
What degrees and PhD did you study?
I completed a BSc in Anatomy and Human Biology, an MSc in Medical Visualisation and Human Anatomy and later a part-time PhD looking at the interaction between the shape and size of the brain, face and cranial base during postnatal development in primates.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I chose to study anatomy as I've always been fascinated by the body – both human and animal. As a child, I enjoyed looking at anatomical specimens in the Natural History Museum. I would spend hours examining the preserved parts in jars. I think my mum knew what I was going to study before I had worked it out!
What jobs have you had during your career?
Following my MSc, I taught anatomy as a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Glasgow before moving to Liverpool to begin a part-time PhD and work as an anatomy demonstrator.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I’m currently an anatomy demonstrator in the Human Anatomy Resource Centre (HARC), teaching in anatomy labs with a range of student cohorts including medicine, dentistry, human anatomy, and allied health. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students grasp a tricky concept or recognise something in the lab that they’ve only previously encountered in lectures – that “lightbulb moment”. It’s especially great when students say, “Oh wow, it really does look just like the diagrams!"
Do you have an area of expertise?
I am a bit of a Jack- (or Jill-) of all trades, as I teach mainly medical students and therefore cover the anatomy of the whole body over the course of the year. I previously taught a lot of head and neck anatomy to dentistry students, but I genuinely enjoy covering the entire body, especially when I can add clinical context.
My research portfolio is quite varied. My PhD involved technical work relating to the quantification of shape and shape changes, and correlations between measurements and structures. Since then, I’ve moved more towards pedagogy (teaching) research, and research into anatomical variations with a clinical applications angle.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
My PhD was interesting, but now that it's complete, I'm really appreciating being able to stretch my wings more in my job role and get involved in lots of different projects. I'm involved in a wide range of projects, including departmental planning of upcoming events, courses and assessments; public engagement and outreach, and mentoring colleagues. I’m really enjoying my current job and all the opportunities it brings!
What are your top tips for working in your industry?
Be open to new opportunities. If something interesting comes along, go for it – even if you’re not sure that you have all the skills or knowledge. It’s great to have a variety of perspectives working in a team, so you may be exactly what’s needed. But also remember to manage your time. If you’re already really busy, it’s okay to say no.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
My granny used to say, “What’s for you won’t go by you”. If something is meant to happen, it will find a way. People sometimes get stuck chasing a path simply because they think it’s what they should do. It’s good to have a plan, but also keep an open mind – great opportunities often turn up unexpectedly.
Why are you passionate about your career?
I've always been interested in anatomy, and I enjoy educating others about it. Everyone has a body, and most people are naturally curious to learn more, which is great!
It’s fulfilling to know that by teaching future healthcare professionals and researchers, they will go on to teach others, develop new skills, and research important areas that could have a big impact on people’s lives, particularly in the medical field. It’s a rewarding role, and I feel I’m genuinely making a difference to the wider community as well.
Other resources:
Amy's staff profile