Exciting projects to apply for
My name is Kanza Rahali. I graduated with a pharmacy degree from the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat in Morocco. For my graduation thesis, I worked on genotyping hot spot mutations in BRCA2 and TP53 genes in Moroccan male and female breast cancer patients.
I then enrolled on a Master's degree course in London, where I majored in cancer biology. For my MSc project, I worked on cancer signalling in cervical cancer cells. I then went back home to Morocco and worked for five years before going back to education and starting my PhD in 2021. I took my time to choose the right university and supervisor and researched many different projects. My final choice was the University of Greenwich, studying under Professor Dennis Douroumis, and I am happy with my choice. Having previously worked on cancer screening and signalling, there were so many other aspects that I wanted to explore in order to refine my knowledge in cancer biology. This is the reason I chose to work on cancer treatment for my PhD.
Support big advancements in science
For my PhD project, I am working on nanotechnology and specifically on nanoparticle formulation using microfluidic devices. Nanotechnology has helped cancer therapy greatly where the nano-formulated agents can target tissues that are hard to reach and can be loaded with different compounds. Microfluidic technology on the other hand has allowed us to handle small volumes, hence saving time and reagents. The aim of my PhD project is to formulate, using microfluidic technology, nanoparticles that would be able to target cancer cells.
As a part of my PhD, I work as a lab demonstrator and I give chemistry support sessions to undergraduate students. This work experience is so rich, giving me a glimpse of academia life and teaching, which could be an option for me after completing my PhD. I also have had the chance to help at Open Days and events that the university holds, meeting prospective students, answering their questions and sharing my experience.
Improve your skills as a scientist
A PhD is a challenging and exciting journey that teaches you to be critical about your own work and results to improve your techniques and skills.
Life is a continuous learning process. This quote has inspired me during my higher education journey. Some moments can be tough but during these moments you learn a lot about yourself and about the way you work until you reach your final goal and contribute to scientific research through publications. You may receive some expected and unexpected results, which could lead to new questions and conclusions. I have learnt a lot through my project and from my supervisor who was present during every step of it, offering guidance and expertise.
