James Holland

I completed a Bsc in Biomedical sciences at Newcastle University (2010-13), before undertaking an Msc in Biotechnology (2013-14).

What previous lab experience do you have?
In 2013 I worked for 3 months in the Hesketh Lab at Newcastle University, investigating the influence of Nonsense-mediated decay upon intracellular levels of specific selenoproteins. This was done through a siRNA knockdown of key components in the Nonsense-mediated decay apparatus. In 2014 I worked with Dr Stacy-Paul Wilshaw within the Eileen Ingham laboratory at the University of Leeds, to attempt to establish a set of optimal culture conditions for sections of porcine femoral artery, in preparation for the development of a model organ system.

What attracted you to the Centre for Doctoral Training in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine – Innovation in Medical and Biological Engineering
I was particularly attracted by the opportunity to broaden my skillset. Coming from a bioscience background, the opportunity to gain vital experience in a multidisciplinary environment, and apply that experience in my own research, is very exciting to me.

How did you hope the CDT integrated PhD would give you an advantage over a conventional PhD?
The opportunity to gain experience within the department and undertake a variety of laboratory placements is extremely valuable in identifying the specific area in which you would like to conduct your PhD research. The ability to acquire an Msc whilst doing so only adds to the attractions.

What benefits do you feel you get from the interdisciplinary nature of the course?
As a biologist, the opportunity to broaden my skillset and apply new ideas from subject areas such as Mechanical Engineering and Chemistry, and the ability to apply this new knowledge to my research is an extremely valuable opportunity.