So Much to Do, So Little Time - Marilyn Clark

First Year of Research

Having just begun the second year of the CDT, and the first year of my research project, it currently feels a bit like I’m standing at the bottom of mountain and staring at the misty peak of completion way up in the clouds. There is so much left to do, many more questions to ask (and be distracted by…), and so little time to accomplish it all.

‘Eureka’ moments

However, looking back on the past year or so I can see how far I have already come, and that the first few steps have been taken. The past year has involved A LOT of reading and many hours spent being confused before ‘Eureka’ moments occurred. But, I feel like I am getting there now, which is reassuring. A highlight has definitely been attending the Spinal research network meeting a few months ago in London. It was truly inspiring seeing the recent developments in the field and realising how far we still have to come, and where my research fits into the bigger puzzle.

Project Focus

My project focuses on encouraging the proliferation, differentiation and migration of the endogenous stem cell population within the spinal cord. So far I’ve had training in immunohistochemistry, histology, and several different microscopy techniques, as well as learning how to culture organotypic spinal cord slices (I have kept many alive so far!) and obtaining my Home office licence for animal work.

As a wise hobbit once said: “It’s a dangerous business, going out your door. You step into the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off to.” My journey so far has not been the straightest of roads, and I’ve not always known where it will lead, but it has always been an adventure!