“After completing my MSc, I knew I wanted to continue research into physics but also stay involved in science communication. I then found a PhD at the University of Surrey in a subject I was very interested in: open quantum systems. My supervisors are a mix of physicists and biologists, two of whom have a lot of experience in science communication. So ultimately, Surrey offered the best combination of research project and supervisor experience.

My proudest achievement is probably my first new result! It’s amazing to have produced something that is new to science. Every new result is an extra bit of progress for humanity.

I have really enjoyed meeting new people, all with different backgrounds and interests. It’s fantastic! I’ve also been getting involved in activism; I’m working with the Students’ Union and the University to ethically source hardware here at Surrey. I’ve found my time here so far to be very empowering, one person really can make a big difference.”

“I have been a postdoctoral researcher at Surrey for two years. I enjoy the challenge of working in a field that is constantly changing (my research focuses on antimicrobial resistance). I decided to take up research at Surrey as I wanted to be part of an institution with strong core values that I believe in and be part of the dynamic research group led by Professor La Ragione.

I am determined to make a difference in the field, not only because the area is so interesting and challenging, but because my research has the potential to save lives and improve welfare in animals. It is my hope that my research will lead to the discovery and evaluation of a novel antimicrobial that is approved to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. I also hope to be able to highlight not only the magnitude of antimicrobial resistance in certain bacterial species, but their ability to cause life-threatening infections.”