Why did you choose to study a Masters by Research at the University of Aberdeen?
I came to Aberdeen in 2016 when I originally planned to do an MSci. After a couple of months of lectures, one of my professors saw how keen I was in learning more and doing more hands-on experiments. He suggested that I should approach Professor Mirela Delibegovic and ask if I could shadow her team. I was surprised how easy it was to approach professors at the University of Aberdeen, and how keen they are to give you an opportunity and their support to learn more about their field of research. I felt that the University of Aberdeen is a place where everything is possible.
What did you do your project on and why did you pick this topic?
During my undergraduate time in Aberdeen I was volunteered in Professor Mirela Delibegovic’s lab where I was involved in many aspects of research in diabetes and related diseases. I was then awarded a vacation studentship from Alzheimer Research UK to support a summer placement in 2017 when I worked on the link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. The project was continued during my honours project in 2018. I developed a strong interest in the inflammatory response which is a key player in metabolic disorders such as diabetes, dementia and cardiovascular diseases.
I have developed a strong interest for the inflammatory response, a key player in metabolic disorders such as diabetes, dementia and cardiovascular diseases and this gave me the opportunity to do my Masters by Researach on how the inhibition of PTP1B, an actor in low chronic inflammation, can improve diabetes and cardiovascular health.
What did you enjoy most about your Masters?
I enjoyed being the master of my project (no pun intended!). Although I was given directions and advice from my supervisor in the first months, I had the chance to design my experiments and lead my project independently. Not only I have confirmed my laboratory skills, but also my project management, work organisation and presentation. Thanks to the Masters programme, I have become a full member of the University of Aberdeen research community.
How has your Masters by Research helped you in your career?
Masters by Research is the best first opportunity to live the life of a researcher. This one year degree allowed me to not only confirm my will to do a PhD in the field of metabolic diseases, but also to boost my chance of being awarded a PhD studentship.
What did you enjoy most about living and studying in Aberdeen?
Aberdeen is a beautiful city full of history. There is always something to discover while walking in the street. And if I ever get tired of the grey Granite City, I go for a walk in one of the city parks, the beach or visit the National Park nearby. Also, I have always dreamt of living next to the sea. It is with a great pleasure that I go to work and contemplate the sea from my office window when I need to reflect on my work.