Media Appearances

Why are you doing a PhD?

I have chosen to undertake a PhD so that I could further specialise in my chosen field of root glycomics. I initially started researching this area as a part of my Master’s degree and there was so much more to uncover that I wanted to take my knowledge further. My Master’s degree taught me the research basics whereas the PhD will allow me to learn on the job and develop my skills over a longer period of time.

What is your PhD topic?

Plant roots secrete a variety of sugars into their surrounding soil. This process is a complete mystery as sugars are the energy currency of the plants. It is estimated that up to a third of the plants energy currency is secreted through their roots. This would be like a person bizarrely throwing 30% of their earnings out of the window. There are many theories to explain why plants secrete sugars, however, there has been no direct evidence to explain this process. My research aims to understand why plants secrete sugars, what types of sugars are secreted and how these sugars interact and change to suit the environment.

Why did you choose Leeds?

I first researched my PhD topic during my Master’s degree and I wanted to understand the area of root glycomics in greater detail. I found an academic at Leeds whose interests were similar to mine and made initial contact with my developed research idea. The academics were really helpful during the application process. Staying in Leeds was my preferred choice as it’s a great city and the campus is right in the city centre which makes it ideal.

Why did you apply for a 110 Anniversary Research Scholarship?

I applied for the 110 Anniversary Scholarship to gain funding to pay for my research in the lab and to help pay for my living costs which enables me to remain in Leeds. The scholarship has given me peace of mind as I can focus solely on my research.

What has the scholarship enabled you to do?

The 110 Anniversary Scholarship enabled me to carry out my dream to specialise in my chosen field. It also enabled me to continue my research and to expand the knowledge and understanding of an area of plant science which has not received enough attention.

What impact would you like your research to have?

I want my research to expand an area of root glycomics which has been overlooked by many other researchers. Furthermore, I want my research to have wider implications from educating school children to the general public to having applied applications to growing crops. A key focus for my research is the environment, understanding of the initial interactions between soil dwelling fungi and crop plants.

What are your intended career steps after completing your research degree?

I am unsure what direction I will take after I complete my PhD. The two key opinions that I have thought about are to remain at the University of Leeds as a post-doctorate or go into industry where I could move more into applied sciences. I’m learning skills every day that can be used in a range of careers, from laboratory produce and techniques to project management and team work.

How have you found the first few months of studying for a research degree?

The first few months of my PhD has been tough but I really enjoy the autonomy and independence that I have in the direction of my research. I have already generated lots of interesting and perplexing results along with teaching and supervising two undergraduates. Since I have just begun my research there are still lots of unknowns which I cannot wait to investigate.

I have come along way since completing my GCSE’s at Longbenton Community College. Even before starting secondary school I knew a wanted to become an expert horticulturist. The LCC gave me the chance to explore my ambitions by letting me help out at their gardens and by organising some work experience at Alnwick Garden. Afterwards I decided to take a national certificate and diploma of which I both received a double and triple distinction. This further fuelled my passion for horticulture and inspired me to take a degree.

During my degree I decided to diversify as I became fascinated by the science of plants. Many people believe plants are quite dully idle objects but they do some amazing process from photosynthesising to quite literally developing their own form of internet. After receiving news that I received a 1^st class degree I progressed to my honours with my new goal to become plant biotechnologist. During my graduation event this year I won the best student of year award for my academic progress. After receiving news of my 1^st class honours degree this year I was accepted at the University of Leeds to take my MSc in Plant Science and Biotechnology. Prior to starting my MSc I have wrote five research papers which were a collaboration with many of the North’s best Universities including Newcastle University; looking into increasing the freeze tolerance of three microalgae which have the potential for bioremediation and the University of York; looking into a comparative study of blue, green and red light wavelength’s effects on the proliferation of tomatoes. After my MSc I am planning to take my studies further by taking a PhD.

Looking back now I would have never thought I would achieve so much. It just shows if you put your mind to it, add some hard work and a lot of determination you will achieve what you want. I would like to thank LCC for initially creating the environment for me to better myself.