Roxanne Dyer
- mnrsdd@leeds.ac.uk
I studied Anatomy and Physiology at the University of Dundee. Through the Erasmus programme, I also spent a semester at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, studying Biomedical Sciences. In 2016, I graduated from the University of Dundee with an MSci (1st) in Physiology and moved to Leeds for the CDT TERM programme.
Briefly explain what your research is about and what you hope to find?
My research aims to regenerate damaged spinal cord tissue, using decellularised nerve grafts to provide a supportive environment for neuron regrowth. I hope to create a biomaterial implant which can restore hind limb motor function in rats after severe spinal cord injury.
How did you hope the CDT integrated PhD would give you an advantage over a conventional PhD?
The CDT programme really emphasizes translation of research and industrial collaboration with academia, and includes an industrial placement. This is helping me to explore my career options, so I can decide whether I want to work in industry or academia in the future.
What benefits do you feel you get from the interdisciplinary nature of the course?
I can access a huge range of experience from all of my co-supervisors with different specialties, to tackle a complex research project from different angles.
How do you hope to extend the experience gained from the course in your future career?
The first year of the CDT has given me a broad grounding in the theory of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. My project will now give me experience in a wide range of practical skills, from materials analysis to animal behavioural testing and surgical techniques. This will put me in an excellent position with a wide range of future careers open to me.
What have you found most challenging about the CDT course?
Time management – with so many opportunities to take part in new and interesting things during the first year of the course, I found it difficult to juggle classes and placements alongside undergraduate demonstrating and taking part in the MedTech BEST entrepreneurship competition, as well as trying to choose a PhD project.
Could you give one phrase that would persuade others to join the CDT?
Lots of variety, lots of challenges – you can’t get bored on the CDT!