What did you study?
At school, I studied Maths, Physics, Economics and English Literature AS level in order to keep my options open but still mostly mathematically-focussed. My MPhys degree was in Physics with Astrophysics at the University of York, and I am currently studying for my Physics PhD with the University of Liverpool.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I have always enjoyed maths, but preferred to use it with real application that I could see make a difference in the physical world, which Physics was perfectly suited to. I found it to be a great mix of challenging as well as interesting as an undergraduate subject – so much so I decided to pursue it into PhD!
What key skills did you learn at university?
Problem-solving is such a key skill within the field, and I think my education has helped me develop it both academically and personally. Alongside this, the harder skills of coding and independent work have been important, as have other softer skills such as organisation and task management.
What is your current role and what do you enjoy about it?
I’m in the 3rd year of my PhD and I’ve enjoyed having the opportunity to learn more about the field that I plan to work in later in my career. I have been lucky to be able to travel to the US and to various UK conferences as part of my studies, and build strong friendships with those I’ve met throughout my degree.
My research focuses on medical imaging: specifically, 3D x-ray imaging, though I enjoy the topic generally. This has allowed me to develop both experimental skills using robotics and radiation, and computational skills needed for various codes and Monte-Carlo simulation frameworks.
I’m currently undergoing a placement as part of my PhD at Adaptix Ltd in Oxford, where I am seeing for the first time how commercial medical imaging companies operate, and exploring the world outside academia.
What has been your most exciting project?
Outside of my academics, I helped put together the WoNDRS (Women and Non-Binary Researchers in STEM) conference that my friend Katie Ferraby, who is also a Physics PhD student, came up with. It was so exciting to have the chance to build community for under-represented groups in STEM – a cause I am passionate about – and learn a whole new skillset that comes with organising an event from scratch!
I'm passionate about my subject because I think physics, and medical physics specifically, has the potential to do a lot of tangible good for people directly as research and innovation progresses. EDI is a key element of this, as we can only create medical devices suitable for everyone, for example, if all voices are part of the scientific discussion during development so it is important for me to be able to move the field towards this goal wherever possible.
Top tips and advice
Be open to try learning new skills, even those you never thought you would need or want to learn in the first place – you may be surprised! The fields of physics and medical imaging are always changing, so being able to draw on problem solving and adaptability skills will make sure you are ready for any changes that may come.
While working hard and staying focussed are important for any level of study, it is also key to let yourself take breaks and prioritise yourself when needed. A good work-life balance can improve both your personal life and professional ability, so it is never a waste.
More resources:
Article: Department hosts WoNDRS!
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