“This scientific blog authored by a doctoral researcher delves into the odyssey that is the pursuit of a PhD, dissecting the myriad factors that influence the ultimate destination—whether it be triumphant completion or an abandoned endeavor. Written in the format most aligned to a researcher i.e. a scientific article, this exploration aims to unravel the… Continue reading Navigating the Academic Seas: A Scientific Exploration of PhD Attrition and Support Structures
Category: ITN
Expect the Unexpected!
The first six months of a PhD is a whirlwind of information, literature exploration, and meticulous planning. There are gaps to be identified, challenges to overcome, and design of experiments to propose. As I embarked on this academic journey, it was clear that a well-crafted plan would be necessary and would become the guiding compass… Continue reading Expect the Unexpected!
Learning how to Multitask – in slow motion
As a PhD student in the SIMPPER_MedDev programme, this year has commanded me to work on multiple projects and goals, shifting constantly between ideas and mindsets. Besides my project work, there have been modules and trainings, conferences and secondments, and collaborations and co-authorings. While many people will argue that doing too many different things at… Continue reading Learning how to Multitask – in slow motion
The ‘Breakthrough Point’ in My PhD Journey
As I reflect on the first two years of my PhD journey, which marks the midpoint of this rigorous academic pursuit, I find it crucial to delve into the significance of identifying the strengths of my research direction and the breakthroughs within my PhD work. I aim to illustrate this importance through my own experiences. … Continue reading The ‘Breakthrough Point’ in My PhD Journey
Being Up to date and Flexible as a PhD student
As a PhD student in engineering, staying up to date with the latest advancements in the field is crucial for your academic and professional growth. Material engineering is a rapidly evolving discipline with discoveries, innovative techniques, and emerging materials constantly being developed. Biomaterials are of the highest interest as they can change the living quality… Continue reading Being Up to date and Flexible as a PhD student
Beyond Lectures and Lab Coats: SIMPPER_MedDev ESRs take Swiss Sojourn
Set in the picturesque country of Switzerland, the European Training Network SIMPPER_MedDev recently concluded an intensive 2-week course that seamlessly blended education and enjoyment. This rendezvous marked a significant milestone as all early-stage researchers (ESRs) converged in Switzerland for the last training modules of the project. From the 4th to the 15th of September 2023,… Continue reading Beyond Lectures and Lab Coats: SIMPPER_MedDev ESRs take Swiss Sojourn
The Power of Science Communication: A Scientist’s Journey
Introduction:Hey there, fellow science enthusiasts! Today, I want to talk about a topic close to my heart: science communication. As a scientist, I’ve come to realize the immense importance of being skilled in the art of conveying scientific concepts to the wider world. Join me as I share my personal journey and the reasons why… Continue reading The Power of Science Communication: A Scientist’s Journey
My PhD one and a half year later – a recap
The application process Hello. I’m Christian, a Ph.D. student at the University of Twente in Enschede in the Netherlands. A long time ago, I dreamed about getting a Ph.D. However, after finishing my Master studies in physics at the TU Dortmund with focus on particle physics, I wasn’t able to get Ph.D. position. But I… Continue reading My PhD one and a half year later – a recap
Importance of surface integrity in manufacturing biomedical devices
The surface integrity of biomedical devices is crucial to their performance and effectiveness. Biomedical devices, such as orthopaedic implants, surgical instruments, and prosthetics, are often implanted or come in contact with living tissues and bodily fluids. As a result, the surface of these devices must be carefully designed and controlled to ensure biocompatibility, durability, and… Continue reading Importance of surface integrity in manufacturing biomedical devices
Case study: Prototyping a screening device for anti-cancer drug treatment
Following the second training module (TM2) hosted by UCD in the spring of 2022, a case study was given to a group of three ESRs in the SIMPPER_MedDev project. With excitingly new and relevant knowledge of the design of microfluidic devices and the industry at large, they were challenged to address a new direction to… Continue reading Case study: Prototyping a screening device for anti-cancer drug treatment
