Przemyslaw Ociepa PhD in Biological Sciences
As an international student I chose the University of Southampton because it is a member of the Russell Group universities in UK providing the highest quality of education. The building of Life Sciences is home of state of the art laboratories with equipment needed for your research. The open plan offices make it perfect to create an interdisciplinary environment.
I am exploring the function of pectin modification on plant root development and helping to elucidate the processes coordinating cell wall with carbohydrate metabolism. The project involves collaborations with laboratories from France and Norway.
I have enjoyed plant biology since my childhood and I learnt it intensively during my studies in Poland and laboratory practices in UK. I was looking for a PhD position in the same area of biology and Dr Alan Marchant’s PhD offer was a topic of my interest, the plant cell walls. I am exploring the function of pectin modification on plant root development and helping to elucidate the processes coordinating cell wall with carbohydrate metabolism. The project involves collaborations with laboratories from France and Norway.
As a member of the Biological Sciences Postgraduate Society (BSPS) I have a chance to develop my skills in the areas like time and team management. I have started as the Collaboration Officer in the founder committee and now I am the Career and Education Officer organising career events and seminars with guest speakers. The vibrant environment all the society members provide gives you a lot of opportunities to learn new skills, challenge yourself and most importantly gives you a break from science during social events! Some of them are: pub quizzes and a welcome event for new postgraduates to get to know each other. Additionally, I am a champion for the Three Minute Thesis Competition organising the local heats and being as a postgraduate representative I contributed to the Graduate School and Life Sciences Health and Safety Committees work. As you see, there is plenty to get involved in!
On this stage of my career in science I learn how to manage my time with research and administrative duties and become an independent researcher. The Southampton University gives you a wide range of courses that are very useful for your personal and professional development. You will find the courses suitable for your future plans, no matter if you want to stay in academia or move to industry. What is great, there is a lot of opportunities to chat with people from all over the world during the coffee meetings.