What were you doing before joining the Centre?
I worked as a London Taxi driver, having completed the famous ‘Knowledge of London’. Driving everyday on London’s polluted roads made me realise that action needed to be taken in tackling the dreadful effects that air pollution has on the health of professional drivers.

Why did you choose the Centre and how did involvement with the Centre contribute to your project?
I knew that obtaining a PhD Studentship at the MRC Centre would enable me to learn from world renowned experts providing me with a unique environment in which to undertake research that I am passionate about advancing. I wanted to change my career path to develop my research interests and being part of the MRC Centre has provided me that opportunity.

What do you enjoy most about your day to day work and the people you work with?
The studentship has provided me the chance to meet people and interact across a number of cross disciplinary areas and projects. Being a member of the MRC Centre has allowed me to regularly attend conferences and seminars and to be inspired by the incredible work that goes on in the Centre.

What are your plans after graduating?
At the moment I have no definite plans although I am enjoying this amazing experience and can see myself carrying on my research.

What opportunities have you benefitted from outside your PhD?
I have been able to obtain a network of a wide range of people from many different fields of research providing a new way in which to interact with people outside of my everyday experiences. I am a committee member of the Researchers Society, which offers a fun, social way to engage with fellow students and the MRC Centre.

Do you have any tips for future MRC Centre Studentship applicants?
Firstly, discuss your research project with your supervisor and ensure it is the project you want to undertake. Once you are at the Centre make use of all the opportunities that the MRC Centre offers. Attend the events that the Centre organises to network with people outside of your field and hear about the work of others, join the Researchers Society and get involved in every collaboration opportunity that becomes available. The MRC Centre provides a unique environment in which to learn and enjoy yourself and you will get the most out of it by being involved.