I’ve always been interested in investigating cancer cures, particularly as I lost my Granddad to a grade four glioblastoma multiforme. I applied because of my specific interest on brain tumours, and thought that it would be great hands-on experience, and it was.
Dr David Michod talked through everything with us so we could understand how each experiment works. We did so many more experiments than I thought we would!
My favourite was showing cells expressing genes. We grew our own bacteria and then inserted a plasmid which contained a protein, DAXX, which has been linked with brain tumours. The plasmid also contained a gene which would make the cell glow either green or red under a microscope if DAXX is present.
It’s given me an amazing insight into brain tumour research, and had helped me solidify what I want to study. As we helped prepare solutions that will be used in the future, I felt like I helped make a difference.
If you have a specific interest in brain tumours like I do, you should apply. It helped me make a decision into what I aim to do in future life; I was quite lost before but, when I started the lab work, I absolutely loved it. I am so grateful to have had this amazing opportunity.
Read our Q&A with Dr David Michod
“…this is probably one of the most exciting jobs. You are getting paid to think logically and innovate to make a difference for people.”