Within the Human Biology BSc, I enjoyed the genetics modules the most as this covered exciting areas such as Human Genetics and Forensic DNA analysis. The rapidly advancing knowledge-base of genetics and how we can use this to benefit patient care is what has led me to work in a diagnostic laboratory.
To further my practical skills, I chose to complete 'wet-lab' based research for my final year project, which gave me a good insight of how to organise myself within a laboratory setting, as well as further developing my problem-solving skills
As I didn’t opt to take a placement at university, the academic teaching staff encouraged me to apply for funding for a 6-week research project related to an area of Human Biology.
Under the supervision of my genetics lecturer, I spent the summer between my second and third year in the laboratory at Loughborough conducting research related to the genetics of diabetes. This was an important developmental period in which I gained skills that greatly benefited me in my third-year project and in my current career. If a placement isn’t for you, I would definitely recommend getting involved in a practical setting through other opportunities like this, as it is a great opportunity to advance your skillset and find out more about what interests you.