Simon Williams

I completed an MEng in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leeds. Whilst undertaking my undergraduate degree at Leeds, I had a chance to complete an industrial experience work placement for a year with BMW Group. This was a fulfilling experience with the chance of experiencing industry first hand. After the completion of my degree I secured a place on the CDT for Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

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

I liked the idea of conducting experiments in a world class brand new laboratory facility, working with some of the world leaders in regenerative medicine. I also liked the idea of completing my PhD alongside other students that were similar to my level, as I’d heard from past PhD students that it can be quite lonely doing them by yourself so having the cohort there is a lot more fun.

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

The option to study multidisciplinary subjects which wouldn’t normally be learnt during my undergraduate degree. There are also options to conduct laboratory placements which I would never get the chance to work in with a conventional PhD.

What have you found most challenging about the CDT course?

The most challenging aspect of the course is having to learn different subjects that you aren’t familiar with in a short space of time. I have no biological background so I needed to get up to speed with biological terms very quickly.

Could you give one phrase that would persuade others to join the CDT?

The idea of conducting experiments in a world class and brand new laboratory facility, working with some of the world leaders in regenerative medicine.