Primary tabs
During my PhD at the Department of Paediatrics, I felt so privileged to be involved in the Cambridge Baby Growth Study (CBGS), a longitudinal birth cohort that commenced in 2001. The study is rich and has produced many important publications in the field of early life and infant nutrition. The study equipped me with many important skills to be a clinical academic, for which I am eternally grateful: lab techniques, communication/clinical skills by recruiting subjects and conducting clinic visits, international collaborations with other infant cohorts, and analysing the large data produced. I received tremendous support throughout my study, not only from my supervisors but also from the senior research associates, research nurses, data team laboratory staff, and all other members of the study group. There are also regular educational events held in the Department where interesting clinical cases are discussed. The learning curve during my PhD was steep at times but in the end, it's all wrapped up as such a rewarding and memorable experience!
Laurentya Olga, Former PhD Student (April 2022)
I am a second-year student in Paediatrics and my work is on metabolism and growth study in preterm infants. Most of the time I work with my supervisor Kathy Beardsall, and obtain guidance for sample analysis from Albert Koulman, my co-supervisor.
My research project needs me to actively communicate with patients in the hospital, learn and do up-to-date hands-on clinical procedures and handle samples in the lab. With my background as a doctor and an academic, I found this training immensely rewarding to prepare me for my future endeavours. My PhD supervisors, lab staff, research nurses and staff in the hospital are all welcoming, very supportive and ready to help.
Living in Cambridge is wonderful and I love their learning culture the most. Every week, the medical school, the Department and the College have provided us with many scientific, personal improvement and mental health programmes. I love attending these sessions as I can listen to the expert speakers and learn directly from them.
The whole experience in Cambridge has cultivated positive values in me and I am proud to be on this journey.
Hanis Kasim, 2nd Year PhD Student (March 2022)