Student Profile: Rachael Tucker
Student experience 11 September 2020
Hi! My Name is Rachael, I am 26 years old and grew up in Northamptonshire. I am studying for a PhD in Chemistry.
Can you please provide an overview of your research in layman’s terms?
I am researching the structure of proteins through the use of NMR analysis. The information I gather can be used to understand the properties of these proteins in its biological environment and can aid in the drug development process.
Why did you want to study at Manchester?
The University of Manchester has a great reputation from an academic perspective, particularly from the science subjects. What really drew me to Manchester was the research projects and resources available.
What/where did you study before starting your PhD?
I completed my BSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Greenwich before pursuing a Master’s degree in Drug Discovery and Development at Imperial College. I then moved to Manchester to work in pharmaceutical analysis for two years before applying for a PhD research project at the University of Manchester.
What do you enjoy most about studying/researching here?
The resources and societies available here are great. I enjoy the social aspects of studying here, everyone I have met here is really friendly and helpful.
What are your thoughts on Manchester as a city?
Manchester is a city full of surprises. The city centre itself is easy to navigate and its surrounding boroughs where you can find independent restaurants and shops. There are also great transport links to nearby cities and the Peak District.
How do you see your time at The University of Manchester helping with your career plans?
My previous research at university was very focused on medicinal chemistry. During my time in industry, I learned that many pharmaceutical companies have changed their focus from more traditional small molecule drugs to biological therapeutics such as antibodies and protein therapies which I found really interesting. This is what inspired me to apply for this particular PhD project.
Has your time studying at The University of Manchester caused you to rethink or alter your career plans?
Before studying at The University of Manchester I only really considered either a career in academia or a career in industry. Since then I have met a range of researchers who are at different stages in their studies or careers who aim to go on to different things from science writing, to teaching, and to accounting. Studying here has definitely opened my eyes to the career options available, which has made me open to explore the ideas of other career options.
What would you say to people considering coming to Manchester to study?
When considering any university it’s really important to look at the program itself, as well as the place the university is located and what support and resources are available. These are all very important as this will be where you spend the next 3 years of your life. Have a look at what modules of the course are compulsory and which options you can choose in the later years. Are these modules which will help with your career aims or that you think you will enjoy?
From an undergraduate perspective, Manchester is heavily focused on the practical lab work whereas other universities may focus more on the taught aspects of the course. Research the resources available and what they can offer you, whether this is in the form of subject specific tutorials, careers and mental health services or the societies and sports available. If you can, go to the open days as this will give you a feel for the university campus and where it is located. This is also a great opportunity to talk to existing students directly about their experiences at the university.
And outside university… what do you get up to in your spare time?
I like cooking, travelling and gardening.
Leave a Reply