Megan Gee
Alumni
- Home country:United Kingdom
I currently work in the Translational Brain Sciences Group at the University of Birmingham, where I am pursuing a PhD alongside my role as a Research Associate. My research focuses on inflammatory mechanisms underlying migraine pathophysiology and explores the biological links between migraine and obesity. My PhD integrates both in vivo and ex vivo models of migraine to investigate whether targeting inflammatory pathways can alleviate migraine-associated pain.
In my role as a Research Associate, I am also involved in the IIH-Advance clinical trial, contributing to the collection and processing of patient samples. This work supports exploratory analyses examining how GLP-1 receptor agonists may influence biomarker profiles in individuals with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension.
My typical day involves designing and conducting laboratory experiments, analysing data, and presenting findings at lab meetings. I also spend time reading widely within my research area, particularly to support writing of literature reviews, and to also ensure my work remains current and aligned with the latest advances in the field.
During my MSc research project, I came across a Research Associate position advertised on the University of Birmingham vacancies website. I applied through the portal and was fortunate to be offered the role, with the opportunity to undertake a PhD alongside it. Following this, I developed and submitted a detailed research proposal outlining the structure of my four planned PhD chapters and highlighting the timeliness and significance of the project.
The MSc in Immunology and Immunotherapy was incredibly valuable in preparing me for my academic career. It developed my ability to understand and interpret research articles, critically analyse literature, and generate novel ideas, all which translate directly to my day-to-day role.. The course also provided opportunities to present in journal clubs, and write research grant proposals, again, skills necessary in academic research.
Importantly, the 12-week research project gave me hands-on experience in independent research, building my confidence in experimental design, data analysis, and communicating novel findings in a dissertation format.
The University’s support services were very helpful in preparing me for my career. My personal tutor provided valuable guidance on career options and advice, which gave me confidence in taking the next step after my MSc. The Careers Network offered excellent support with advice on CV writing and interview preparation.
My best advice would be to stay proactive and open-minded to opportunities, even if they feel daunting or don’t fit perfectly into your original plans. Seeking out experience is one of the best ways to build confidence and learn from others.
I would also encourage students to have the courage to reach out for advice. People are often more willing to help than you might expect, and those conversations can open up new and unexpected opportunities.
The MSc encouraged me to think critically about research and ask meaningful questions, which helped me better understand research gaps and how they can be addressed. I particularly enjoyed the small-group teaching format, as it allowed for more direct interaction with lecturers, deeper discussions, and greater peer support within our cohort.
The course also provided excellent networking opportunities, including attendance at the British Society for Immunology Winter School, which was a great opportunity to connect with others and learn about immunology research across the UK.
The research project was the most valuable aspect of the course for me, as it allowed me to integrate into a research group, gain hands-on experience in a real lab environment, and understand how academic research and collaborations function within academia.
My biggest achievement during the course was winning the McClennan Prize for achieving the highest overall grade on the programme.