The MSc gave me the skills I need to kick-start my career in biotechnology

What made you decide to study MSc Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery in Sheffield?

I decided to study in Sheffield because of its excellent reputation for high-quality research output. As indicated by its motto, “Rerum cognoscere causas - to know the cause of things”, I am well aware that the University of Sheffield prides itself on its reputation for expanding the forefronts of knowledge in a number of disciplines. Furthermore, I was confident that the course would provide me with the skills and intensive training required to pursue a career in biotechnology. 

What have you enjoyed most about the course?

I have really enjoyed using advanced technologies in the RNAi lab, and the diverse discussions facilitated during the ethics and critical analysis module. I am a conversationalist, and I thoroughly enjoy engaging in valuable and meaningful discussions. Therefore, having the ability to connect science and applying that to philosophical theories was a breath of fresh air.

What are you doing for your MSc research project?

Currently, I am working in the RNAi lab with Dr Stephen Brown. My research project is centred around the coronavirus proteins, NSP1 and ORF6, and their function in triple negative breast cancer. There have been various studies showing these proteins have an impact on STAT signalling. Since the STAT signalling, particularly the STAT3 protein, is important for breast cancer proliferation, migration and apoptosis, we thought to transfect them in the cells to see if there are any downstream or upstream regulatory effects. 

What scientific skills have you developed during your course?

Each module provides students with the opportunity to learn a new skill. During our ethics and critical analysis classes, which I thought were extremely valuable, students develop skills including debating, delivering presentations, and interpersonal communication. In other modules, students gain technical skills such as data analysis, interpretation, programming, and report writing. Furthermore, since I am completing my project in the RNAi lab, I have also learned to use high-throughput technology. 

What transferable skills have you developed during your course?

Students develop numerous transferable skills during the course, many of which are vital for a career in science. Furthermore, skills like time management, teamwork, problem solving and critical thinking are relevant in any career. Having graduated with a Master of Science degree, I have also acquired transferable technical skills including statistical programming, bioinformatics, various laboratory techniques, and utilising scientific databases. 

What do you hope to do after your degree?

After my degree, I hope to stay at the University of Sheffield to obtain a PhD in the Florey Lab. Alternatively, I would love to go into clinical research as I already have some experience in that field. I have already received a few offers from biotechnology companies in America to join their clinical data analyst teams. I am hoping to take one of these roles remotely part time whilst continuing to study for a PhD in the UK. This will be tough, but I’ve consulted with a few people and my mentor who told me this is all possible, it just takes time management, something I have definitely developed through my course. 

What would you say to a prospective student considering studying MSc Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery?

As an international student, I would be the first to say that things have not been easy - particularly due to the pandemic. However, the University of Sheffield has been really supportive throughout my time here. My academic advisor has been amazing with ensuring that everyone has a meaningful study experience, regardless of their geographic location. She planned virtual coffee mornings to form a sense of community, and sent regular check-up emails to see how everyone was doing. The University Student's Union (SU) has been voted as the best in the UK for around a decade, but to actually reap the rewards of the SU is a truly enriching experience. The SU has been great at planning virtual events to keep students engaged, promote mental health awareness, and championing the diverse community of students of Sheffield. Overall, Sheffield is an amazing city with beautiful scenery and lots of fun things to do, which makes life here relatively balanced.