Author: Yamini Meshram // Editor: Olatz Niembro Vivanco
Hello, I’m Yamini, a passionate scientist and PhD student currently engrossed in the fascinating world of cancer research at The University of Manchester, UK. In the heart of Nagpur, India, where the scent of orange blossoms intermingles with the buzz of innovation, my journey began. As a young girl fascinated by the mysteries of life, my academic voyage took root in an eclectic mix of chemistry, zoology, and microbiology during my bachelor’s studies. This diverse foundation wasn’t just an educational path; it was a voyage of discovery, where the microscopic wonders of the world whispered secrets of the vast tapestry of life that lay beyond the naked eye.
The Roots of My Scientific Curiosity
The transition from a Bachelor of Science to pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Biotechnology at Dr Ambedkar College was not merely a step up the academic ladder but a leap into a world where my passions for chemistry, zoology, and microbiology converged. Biotechnology, with its promise to harness the molecular mechanisms of life for groundbreaking applications, sparked a fire in me. It was here, amid the rigorous academic challenges and the first hands-on experiences in the lab, that I understood the dedication required to excel in science. The complex dance of proteins, the intricate patterns of DNA – each detail was a piece of a larger puzzle I yearned to solve.
The Initial Steps: Gaining Practical Experience
During my master’s dissertation, my journey took me from the classroom to the cutting edge of scientific research. Later, I began as a Project-Based Trainee at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad, where the theoretical knowledge from my studies transformed into practical skills. It was a time of growth, where each experiment was a story, filled with anticipation, sometimes frustration, and ultimately, the joy of discovery. This phase of my career was crucial in developing my love for scientific writing and communication, blending the precision of laboratory work with the art of storytelling to share our findings with the world.
The leap from focusing on biotechnology to diving into citrus research at the Central Citrus Research Institute in Nagpur might seem like a detour, but it was a pivotal chapter in my story. Here, I found myself at the intersection of academia and industry, exploring new avenues for income generation and research applications. Yet, despite the excitement and the challenges, a part of me yearned for more – for a deeper understanding of life’s mysteries. My heart was set on cancer research, a field that promised not just to quench my thirst for knowledge but to offer the chance to make a real difference in the world.
The Manchester Experience: Research, Teaching, and Beyond
Thus, I found myself in Manchester, embarking on a PhD in Cancer Sciences at The University of Manchester. This wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a new chapter in my life, filled with opportunities to grow as a researcher, educator, and advocate. Manchester became more than just a place of study; it became a home where I could explore my passions, challenge my limits, and contribute to a community dedicated to discovery and innovation.
As I navigated the complexities of cancer research, I also embraced roles that allowed me to give back to the community that had welcomed me. As a Graduate Teaching Assistant, I found joy in guiding the next generation of scientists, sharing my passion for science, and learning from their fresh perspectives. My role as a Student PGR Representative and Committee Member of the Doctoral Academy Graduate Society allowed me to advocate for student welfare, ensuring their voices were heard and their needs met.
Reflections on a Journey Unfolding
Reflecting on my journey from Nagpur to Manchester, I see a path marked by challenges, learning experiences, and milestones. Each step has been a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of embracing every opportunity, and the transformative impact of contributing to a community dedicated to making a difference. My journey is a story of transitions – from a student of science to a scientist in training, from an observer of nature to an advocate for the future of scientific discovery.
In Closing: A Message to Aspiring Scientists
To those standing at the crossroads of their own journeys, remember: the path to discovery is woven with challenges and opportunities. Embrace each experience, seek out mentors, and hold fast to your passion. Science is not just a career; it’s a journey of endless exploration and impact. Dare to dream, persist through adversity, and carve your path in the world of discovery. Here’s to the next chapter in our stories, filled with the promise of new insights, breakthroughs, and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge.
This narrative, woven from my own experiences and reflections, offers a glimpse into my life as a scientist and PhD student. It’s a journey that continues to evolve, filled with aspirations, challenges, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Here’s to the next chapter and the many discoveries it holds.
Discover more from Research Hive
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.
Research Hive 