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My background is in Computer Science, which I studied at undergraduate level, and I had over 5 years of experience as a software engineer in industry before deciding to take a different path in my career.
I wanted to apply and augment my existing skills and experience in a new field, so I was interested in finding a course which would give me a technical understanding and grounding in the latest advances, thus enabling me to achieve this ambition. I chose the MPhil in Biotechnology firstly due to the breadth of topics it covered in its taught component, which equipped me with relevant knowledge and practical skills. Secondly, the research component was a great opportunity to experience doing research in academia, allowing me to make a more informed decision when choosing what opportunities to pursue afterwards. Lastly, Cambridge being at the heart of an important European biotech cluster offered me the chance to expand my network of connections.
Personally, one of the things I really enjoyed about the MPhil was the practical course, as it was the first time I was in a wet lab and I learned a lot. Another advantage of the MPhil is the flexibility to tailor it based on the specific topics you want to explore, by choosing the relevant electives. I really enjoyed getting to know and also work with my cohort, especially during the group research project. While Cambridge can sometimes feel quite small, the Colleges offer many opportunities for interesting activities, ranging from sports to arts. London is also just an hour away by train!
Ana Mihai (Aug. 22, 2022)
As a US citizen and graduate of the United States Military Academy, I was granted the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study in the UK for two years as a Marshall Scholar. As a commissioned officer in the US Army, I was motivated to join the MPhil in Biotechnology because of my interest in synthetic biology and its implications on biosecurity.
I was particularly impressed by the programme’s focus on the most cutting-edge aspects of synthetic biology and biotechnology, as well as the comprehensive education provided by a half-taught, half-research approach.
Although moving to Cambridge from the US amid a global pandemic was a jarring and challenging experience, my time in the programme and at Cambridge, in general, was incredibly fulfilling. The University impressed me with its dedication to the support of its students, diversity, academic excellence, and the pursuit of knowledge. The city of Cambridge is vibrant and varied with beautiful and serene green spaces, excellent pubs and restaurants, and a bustling city centre.
Altogether, my time at Cambridge and in the MPhil was a rich and rewarding experience.
Following my completion of the MPhil in Biotechnology, I went on to complete a MSc in Science and Technology in Society at the University of Edinburgh. The knowledge and technical expertise I had gained through the MPhil in Biotechnology was incredibly beneficial, providing a foundation for my research on biosecurity issues and policy. After the completion of my two years of graduate study in the UK, I returned to the US to continue my service as an officer in the US Army. Through my work in the Army, I hope to strengthen the biosecurity of the US and her allies.
Lynne Mooradian (Aug. 27, 2021)
My journey started with an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. Straight after graduating I joined a newly established Financial Crime team in one of the major banks in South Africa, where I worked for almost 5 years. My passion has however always been in the sciences, and therefore the MPhil in Biotechnology presented as the perfect opportunity to make a move back into the science and engineering field.
From application to graduation I felt welcome and relaxed and everyone across the department and the MPhil cohort were very friendly. I enjoyed the multi-faceted approach of the programme, allowing the students to choose both elective courses and a research project – the combination of which allowed me to better understand various aspects of biotechnology and helped me to find the discipline which interested me most.
Unfortunately the COVID-19 pandemic hit half way through our degree. The department however quickly made plans to accommodate the remainder of our programme and ensured that we still finished on time; and, while it was not as expected, we were still able to complete a very interesting group project remotely.
I am now pursuing a PhD in bioelectronic systems technology, still within the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, which I am greatly enjoying.
Alexandra Wheeler (Aug. 28, 2020)