Katherine Timms

I completed my undergraduate degree here at the University of Leeds in 2015. I attained a first class BSc (Hons) in Medical Science, with an industrial placement year. This placement year was carried out at GlaxoSmithKline.

What previous lab experience do you have?

As mentioned, I completed a placement year at GlaxoSmithKline. During this year I worked in the histology department; and became competent in doing histological tests, immunohistochemistry and image analysis. This year was an excellent experience and instrumental in helping me decide that I wanted to do a PhD.

During my dissertation, I conducted experiments assessing the biological responses to synthetic CoCr wear particles. My supervisor was Joanne Tipper. Skills gained from this experience included electron microscopy, cell culture and cell viability assays.

Alongside these experiences, I also completed many lab sessions during my undergraduate degree, including tests of human physiology such as spirometry; gel-based assays such as Western Blotting; and pharmacological experiments.

What attracted you to the Centre for Doctoral Training in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine – Innovation in Medical and Biological Engineering

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement year, and it helped me decide I wanted to stay in scientific research. Moreover, I had learnt about tissue engineering as part of my undergraduate degree, including my dissertation and found it very interesting.

The scheme here at Leeds allows me to further my biological understanding as well as develop other multi-disciplinary skills which will lead me to be a more well-rounded scientist.

What have you most enjoyed during your time on the CDT Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine – Innovation in Medical and Biological Engineering programme?

I like the cohort aspect of the course as it allows you to feel included and part of a team. Having peers to work alongside is particularly useful for problem solving

What benefits do you feel you get from the interdisciplinary nature of the course?

It allows me to develop my knowledge of mechanical engineering as well as biology; which assists in answering research questions as it helps the question be looked at from several perspectives. Ultimately this means better outcomes

LinkedIn Profile: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/katietimms93