Andy Binks
Studied Physiological Sciences (BSc and PhD) now a researcher at Harvard University
I went to Newcastle to do a degree in zoology, but after attending physiology lectures I realized that I should change course. Physiological Sciences at Newcastle was a well-balanced degree. The proportion of systemic and cellular topics gave us a comprehensive understanding of human physiology. Active participation in lectures, seminars and tutorials was encouraged. The relaxed atmosphere made asking questions or discussion of physiology easy. With Newcastle also being a great place to be an undergraduate, my three years of BSc hold great memories. I had a great time learning, and made great friends. I left Newcastle in 1993 with a 2:1 honours.
The lectures in diving, space, altitude and exercise physiology, plus a research project in the exercise lab, enthused me to carry on with physiological science. Newcastle put me in good stead for an interview at King’s College (London) and I was awarded an MRC scholarship to do an MSc in Human and Applied Physiology. After a year in London, my MSc and I headed back to Newcastle and to the exercise lab to do my PhD.
I spent the next three and a half years investigating what role human respiratory control mechanisms might play in generating sensations such as breathlessness. Similar to the BSc course, there was a concern that the graduate student’s education should not get too narrow or focused. PhD students were encouraged to take relevant taught courses, to take a role in undergraduate teaching, and to be an active member of the department. The department also kept a close eye on student’s progress and well-being; whilst I was there the ‘mentor scheme’ was started. We were encouraged to present our work to peer-groups both within the department and at international conferences, for me this was invaluable experience. A PhD is not an easy degree to do, sometimes the projects went well, a lot of the time they didn’t! The work was often frustrating, but the advantage with Newcastle was that there were many other PhD students in the department for camaraderie. Many a grant cheque was passed over the bar at the North Terrace pub, with long discussions of results to follow.
After being awarded my doctorate in 1998, I went straight to Harvard University to take a research fellowship in the Physiology Program. Harvard put me in the lab very quickly and my experiences from Newcastle were put to good use. I’ve been able to work in some of the world’s leading research hospitals with some great scientists. After being in the States for less than two years I was promoted to research associate and my contract here has recently been extended. My goal now is to become an independent researcher.
