Katherine Wood

wood-katherineMSci Biochemistry

“My four year course allows for further development of lab, communication, presentation and other key skills which are important for a variety of working environments. I get to conduct my own research in an area that inspires me, and acquire skills that couldn’t be developed on a three year course.”

Why I chose Birmingham

UoB had that special something that I just can’t explain. Being a fantastic university of course helped, but the atmosphere was pleasant, lively and inspiring.

Why my course stood out to me

Being affiliated by the Royal Society of Biology, the M.Sci Biochemistry course allows further development of lab, communication, presentation and other key skills important for a variety of work environments. I get to conduct my own research in an area that inspires me, and acquire skills that can’t be developed in a 3 year course.

My personal highlight

Having so many fantastic experiences, it’s quite hard to pinpoint one highlight. One of my favourite highlights though has got to be when I was looking at and manipulating protein structures using molecular graphics software (fairly nerdy I know). The amount of fun I was having made me realise just how much I love structural biology, and was the first stepping stone to my path towards a career in this field.

Living in Birmingham

Living in Birmingham is GREAT! You can access almost any shop or restaurant you could ever want in such a short cheap train journey. The takeaways are delicious and the Bristol Pear is just round the corner (Best Pub ever). There’s so much entertainment to suit everyone, such as clubs, pubs, bowling, shopping centres, laser quest, etc. And not only that the people here are lovely; my experience wouldn’t be the same without the friends I’ve made at university.

wood-katherine-archeryClubs, societies or events I've been involved in

Taking part in Archery since freshers has helped me to discover a new sport that I love and cherish, get me out of my comfort zone, and strive to be better than ever. With my final year looming I’m aiming to be Club Captain and lead the club to new heights, something I believed I couldn’t do as a fresher but now have the confidence to go for.

My aspirations for the future

Going into Academia and Research is something that has grown on me over my time at uni, of which I am now very passionate about. Doing a PhD within structural biology is a dream I wish to pursue, where I can work on protein structures to elucidate how a variety of biological functions work at the molecular level.

My top tip for prospective Birmingham students

Don’t be afraid. Go and take on any challenges comes your way so that you can reach your potential and grow into fantastic people.