Andisheh Niakan studied the Biomedical Science - Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer MRes and is currently studying a PhD at St George's. She tells us about her experience and how the research project prepared her to pursue a PhD.
"With the knowledge and exerptise you acquire from this course, you will be well-prepared to tackle any challenges that come your way as a researcher".
Please tell us about your academic and professional background
I completed my undergraduate degree in biology followed by a master’s degree in immunology. I also have six years of experience working as a research assistant in a cancer immunology group at Shiraz Cancer Research Institute in Iran. Last year, I pursued an MRes in Biomedical Science (the molecular mechanisms of cancer pathway) at St George’s.
What is your current role?
I’m currently a PhD student at St George’s undertaking a research project that aims to investigate the mechanisms of pain and tissue damage induced by bone marrow lesions in osteoarthritis.
Why did you choose to study your course at St George’s?
Before I moved to London, I was actively seeking an MRes course that would allow me to delve deeper into my passion for cancer research and undertake a novel research project in this area. This led me to St George's, where I found the perfect platform to further my knowledge and dedication in this field.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I really enjoyed the opportunity to conduct an independent research project for nine months through this MRes course. This experience enabled me to develop various skills, including laboratory-based and transferable skills. Moreover, this course helped me enhance my scientific writing skills through writing essays and a comprehensive dissertation. I also got the opportunity to improve my presentation skills by presenting at journal clubs and numerous other presentations which were a part of the course.
In addition to the skills and expertise I acquired through my research project, I enjoyed the Common Post Graduate Framework (CPF) modules held during the first term of this course. In particular, I found the statistics and practical data analysis modules very beneficial for my research project in terms of statistical data analysis.
Do you have any specific careers aspirations? If so, how has St George’s helped you to develop these
I had always been keen on pursuing a PhD to conduct a long-term research project and explore a topic in-depth. The wonderful experience I gained during this MRes course motivated me to continue my education at St George’s. Therefore, I decided to apply for St George’s PhD programme, and I was offered a studentship. I believe the invaluable skills and experience I acquired through this course enabled me to succeed in my PhD application. After completing my PhD, my ambition is to pursue a post-doctoral career in academia.
When did you realise you wanted to specialise in cancer?
I have always been interested in cancer research. That’s why I selected a research project about breast cancer during my master’s in immunology and my MRes course. During my time as a research assistant, I had the opportunity to collaborate on numerous cancer studies, mainly focussed on breast cancer. The MRes course in Biomedical Science with an interest in Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer at St George’s further enriched my knowledge and expertise in cancer.
Please can you tell us about your research project?
My project was focused on investigating the epigenetic variations between cancer cells and cancer-resistant cells. The epigenetic modifications investigated include DNA methylation, histone modifications and chromatin changes. During my project, I worked with two brilliant supervisors, Dr Ateequllah Hayat and Dr Efthymia Papaevangelou. I really enjoyed working with them and appreciated their support and guidance throughout my project.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying your course?
I strongly recommend applying for this course if you are enthusiastic about undertaking an independent cancer research project. This course offers various modules, training, and skill-building programmes to help you become a competent researcher. With the knowledge and expertise you acquire from this course, you will be well-prepared to tackle any challenges that come your way as a researcher. Completing this course will open a wide range of career opportunities for you, whether you plan to pursue a PhD or wish to find a career in academia or industry.
Describe St George’s in 3 words
Research-focussed, supportive, innovative.