I was attracted to UC because of its ranking in Biology and the Free Radical Biochemistry (FRB) laboratory. It’s one of just three labs in the world that does research into inflammation and cardiovascular diseases. I also love to travel and had heard great things about New Zealand!
Very peaceful! I’m really enjoying how much less crowded and congested it is here.
My research focuses on how heart attacks and strokes are caused. I’m hoping to understand the diseases better so that we can avoid surgeries as much as possible. Eventually I’d like to become an academic and establish my own research lab. I enjoy teaching and sharing my knowledge with others.
They are. I mentor students who are new to uni, helping them to find their feet and answering any questions they might have. I also tutor Biology students and supervise two master students as well. It’s excellent experience and it feels good to help.
Yes, I’ve found everybody at UC very helpful. My supervisors are very supportive and the PhD students get together regularly to boost each other’s morale. I’ve also gotten some help with scientific writing at the Academic Skills Centre in the library.
"I mentor students who are new to uni, helping them to find their feet and answering any questions they might have, it’s excellent experience and it feels good to help.
Wonderful. It’s so multicultural and everybody is very approachable. I’ve found it easy to make friends. If you know one person it spirals out from there.
Yes, I’ve definitely left the lab to explore! My favourite spot in Ōtautahi Christchurch is the Air Force Museum. I’ve also been to Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. The Aotearoa New Zealand scenery is amazing, it’s like watching postcards come to life. There are lots of beautiful parks around Ōtautahi Christchurch too, which are perfect for relaxing in nature.
I have no regrets. In fact I’m thinking of continuing on at UC for my post doc. Who knows, perhaps I’ll become an academic here! I think it’s a simply wonderful place to be.
