The University of Sheffield
Department of Biomedical Science

BMS PhD Student Case Studies: Alice England

Alice.jpgAlice England - PhD Student

Alice England
Department of Biomedical Science
The University of Sheffield

Undergraduate Student 2005-2008
PhD Student 2008-2011.

During my final year studying Biomedical Science at the University of Sheffield I decided to do a PhD. I wanted to continue my studies in an institution with an excellent reputation for teaching and research, in a vibrant city with plenty of events and entertainment, but also somewhere with a strong sense of community. When a position was offered to me here I was quick to accept. I did not need to look any further - staying here ticked every box.

BMS is a top department for research, providing excellent support and training for its students. It is very friendly, with lots of departmental events in which students, staff and postdoctoral researchers all participate, making it a great environment to work and socialise in. It is easy to communicate with different research areas and there are excellent links with other departments including molecular biology, medicine and engineering. This adds an extra dimension to the diversity of work we already experience and these connections have proved invaluable during my studies by providing alternative sources of information and expertise.

Throughout my PhD I have received excellent training in a range of subject-specific and general skills through the doctoral development program. This program is designed to develop and build on existing skills and is tailored to an individual students needs, therefore ensuring that you get the best possible training.

As part of this program there are weekly seminars hosted by the department, given by current postgraduate or postdoctoral researchers and also a wide variety of guest speakers. These seminars give you the chance to share your work and give you the opportunity to develop key presentation and communication skills. As part of the training program you are also encouraged to attend weekly journal clubs, a student-run session discussing recent publications or novel techniques. I was also lucky enough to attend the Sheffield Graduate School, a three-day course aimed at developing key skills such as communication, teamwork and time management. As a university-wide initiative it also provided a great environment to network with students from other departments and gain new ideas from a wide variety of people.

As well as involvement with departmental activities, the development program also supports involvement in Outreach activities, such as the Science in Schools project and participation in National Science Week. This is a great opportunity to inspire the younger generation and you gain a lot of experience interacting and presenting often quite complex scientific ideas to the general public.

As a postgraduate you are involved in the workings of the department and have the opportunity to take on various responsibilities in addition to your studies. I jumped at the chance to do some undergraduate teaching and help organise departmental open days, and this involvement was encouraged.

Away from work, our award-winning union is central to university life, not only providing bars and night-time venues but also a home for all the societies, sports clubs and activities on offer. You can catch a film, give belly dancing a try or get involved with volunteering. I am part of Sheffield lacrosse, which gives me something that is completely separate from my studies and another avenue through which to meet new people and build a large network of friends.

The university also provides a range of services to help students throughout their time here, including the Student Advice Centre, Accommodation Services and the Careers Service. The services I have used have been professional and approachable, from helping me find accommodation to advice on suitable work experience and finding a part-time job. These services take the pressure off if you happen to find yourself in a difficult situation, and provide all the information you need in one place.

Heading into town, there is an excellent range of shops, restaurants and bars, as well as some fantastic music venues, art galleries, museums, parks and gardens, including the Botanical Gardens, Millennium Galleries and Weston Park and museum. Sheffield is incredibly safe, and I have never once felt uncomfortable or intimidated when out in the city centre or in any of the residential areas. From the city centre it is only a short bus ride to the Peak District - it is astounding how quickly you can go from metropolitan to beautiful countryside. As a postgraduate student I appreciate more what Sheffield has to offer, and after living in the same area for nearly six years I have a definite sense of belonging.

In conclusion, postgraduate students in Biomedical Science at the University of Sheffield have a lot to enjoy. The department provides an excellent intellectual and friendly environment in which to further your knowledge. While the academic merits of the department were a major reason for me wanting to continue my studies here, I also feel at home in Sheffield and very much enjoy being part of the community as a postgraduate student.