Hannah Brown

Throughout my whole education, I have always enjoyed studying and learning – from Literature to Physics and everything else in between. I particularly enjoyed studying Maths and Physics, but I hadn’t considered pursuing them beyond school until I reached A Levels. Up until that point, all I knew was that I wanted to work in the Medical sector in some form. I will be forever grateful for the inspirational teachers I had during Sixth Form who encouraged me to pursue the Physics route. Dr Roberts particularly opened my eyes to the exciting world of research and inspired me to believe there was a place for me in scientific research. ‘You can’t be what you can’t see’ has never rung so true. I went on to complete my undergraduate integrated Master of Physics programme at the University of Liverpool, where I have continued my post graduate studies.

I believe that we all have a duty to work to implement positive changes so that science is an environment where all individuals – including women – are welcomed, valued and respected.

My PhD project has allowed me to apply my knowledge of Physics to Medical Applications and contribute towards the cultivating, enthusing field of cancer diagnostics. The project involves developing and optimising a detector for application in Low Dose Molecular Breast Imaging. During my undergraduate programme, I completed numerous Medical Physics modules including ‘Radiation Therapy Applications’ which was delivered by Dr Laura Harkness-Brennan. Laura’s reputation as a passionate and inspiring mentor preceded her and I was incredibly lucky that the opportunity arose for me to complete my PhD under her guidance.

Outside of education, I am also incredibly blessed to be surrounded by supportive, positive influences who continue to encourage and empower me in all that I undertake. I want to continue to work to reshape the scientific culture so that this support network is accessible to everyone and to create a space where women particularly feel comfortable, confident and able to thrive. We have attempted to emulate this in the Physics department by establishing the LivWiP group which aims to support and celebrate women working and studying Physics at the University of Liverpool.

Inspired by the philosophy that ‘what you permit you promote’,  I believe that we all have a duty to work to implement positive changes so that science is an environment where all individuals – including women – are welcomed, valued and respected.