Research Student Stories

My PhD aims to explore women's health through the use of arts-based research methods, aiming to creatively capture and evaluate women's lived experiences and understanding of their health. These approaches aim to deepen understanding and identify the educational needs that will inform the co-design of a health literacy tool, which will be evaluated at the end of the study.

It's been great meeting like-minded people and hearing about other research going on, even outside my area, it's all so interesting. My multidisciplinary PhD means I work across two schools, which has really helped me connect with others and learn from different disciplines.

What was your route to undertaking a PhD/Masters by Research?

My journey to a PhD started in nursing, where I developed a strong interest in improving patient care through evidence and research. Working in ICU during the pandemic inspired me to move into research as I saw first hand the impact research had on practice. I moved from clinical into academia and I worked as a Research Assistant while completing my Masters by Research. That experience, combined with my passion for women's health, inspired me to undertake a PhD focused on using creative methods to explore and support women's understanding of their health.

How has your PhD/Masters by Research helped you grow academically, professionally or personally?

I'm currently in the early stages of my PhD and still settling into the rhythm of day-to-day research life. I've been throwing myself into training opportunities, doing lots (and lots!) of reading, completing relevant modules, and actively engaging with the PGR community. I'm also enjoying meeting like-minded researchers and building connections that will support and inspire my PhD journey. 

My PhD is already helping me grow in lots of ways. I'm building on what I learned during my Master's, developing my academic skills, and becoming more confident as an independent researcher. It's also pushing me to grow personally, I'm learning to manage my time, balance challenges, and stay motivated, all while doing something I'm genuinely passionate about.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about doing a PhD/Masters by Research at The University of Aberdeen

Being on campus has really helped me feel part of the PGR community. I know that's not possible for everyone, but my advice would be to take every opportunity you can: join training, attend meetings, and ask all the questions!

My research focuses on developing new mathematical models to evaluate efficiency in organizations, using a method called Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). In my first submitted paper, I proposed a novel approach for calculating cross-efficiency method when we have peer-evaluation, which can help organizations better understand their performance and make more informed decisions. This research is important because it provides more accurate tools for evaluating efficiency, which can improve productivity and decision-making across different industries.

What motivated you to pursue a PhD/Masters by Research?

I have always been fascinated by using mathematical models to solve real-world problems. During my previous studies and research experiences I discovered the potential of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to evaluate efficiency and performance in organizations. I wanted to explore this area in greater depth, contribute new methods for assessing cross-efficiency for more models, and advance knowledge in the field of management. Pursuing a PhD by Research allows me to combine my passion for mathematics with practical applications that can make a tangible impact.

Why did you choose to study at the University of Aberdeen?

I chose to study at the University of Aberdeen because it is a historic institution with a strong academic reputation and excellent research facilities. I was particularly attracted to the opportunity to work with my supervisor, Dr John Lamb, whose research aligns with my interests in mathematical modelling and Data Envelopment Analysis. The supportive and knowledgeable environment provided by both the university and my supervisor has created the ideal setting for me to develop my research skills and pursue my PhD effectively. Additionally, the university offers a range of resources and opportunities for student wellbeing and extracurricular activities, which contribute to a balanced and fulfilling academic experience.

The university has not only supported us academically but also provides extensive resources for student wellbeing, health, and more activities, events. This holistic support helps create a balanced and fulfilling academic experience.

My research contributes to knowledge by introducing a psychoanalytic perspective to the study of language learning motivation for the first time. This perspective moves beyond the positivist tradition that treats motivation as an external, measurable phenomenon. Instead, a psychoanalytic approach foregrounds the learner's inner psychic experience, where motivation is examined as part of this complex, holistic process. I plan to work as a lecturer in language education at a university.

What motivated you to pursue a PhD/Masters by Research?

It was my curiosity to understand the magic my junior secondary school English teacher used to make, keeping our entire class so motivated and engaged in learning English. Under her guidance, our ordinary class transformed into the top-performing class in the senior secondary school entrance examination.

What training & support have you received during your PhD/Masters by Research?

The School of Education offered a series of online seminars and workshops during my first and second years of the PhD. Beyond that, I must say that every staff member I met in the School of Education has been a source of support for me, academically, administratively and emotionally. I found this especially important as an international student, since feeling welcome and developing a sense of belonging in a foreign city can be challenging. Such support plays a fundamental role in everyday life and can significantly influence both the progress and quality of research.

What do you enjoy most about studying and living in Aberdeen?

Some people say Aberdeen has fewer things going on compared to larger cities such as Edinburgh. This may be true, but for conducting research and learning to become a researcher, the city offers tranquility and beautiful scenery that support consistent and focused study. I personally appreciate this aspect of Aberdeen as an ideal place for a long mental retreat.