We recently announced the winners of our In2scienceUK public engagement competition. For our ‘How STEM makes a difference’ category, we tasked participants on the In2STEM programme to write a blog post on why their area of STEM is important. Read Alina’s winning entry in full below, who wrote about the research conducted by their In2STEM placement host Dr Sonia Gran, an Associate Professor of Medical Statistics based at the University of Nottingham.
Have you ever thought about the skin you’re in? It’s not just a protective barrier; it’s a canvas that tells your life story. But what happens when this canvas is threatened by diseases like skin cancer? Enter Dr Sonia Gran, a medical statistician and epidemiologist at the University of Nottingham, whose ground-breaking work is transforming the way we understand and combat these threats.
Unveiling the work of Dr Sonia Gran
Dr Sonia Gran’s research focuses on skin cancer and rare skin diseases, fields that, although critical, often don’t receive the attention they deserve. With over £3.3 million in secured funding and more than 60 publications to her name, Dr Gran is a leading figure in her field. Her work involves rigorous data analysis and collaboration with international research groups to uncover patterns and solutions that can save lives.
The importance of this research
Why is Dr Gran’s work so vital? Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Early detection and understanding the risk factors can significantly improve survival rates. Dr Gran’s research not only aims to identify these factors but also to develop better diagnostic tools and treatments. This is particularly crucial for rare skin diseases, which often lack sufficient research due to their uncommon nature.
Imagine a world where skin cancer can be detected in its earliest stages, where treatments are more effective, and where even the rarest of skin conditions are understood and managed. Dr Gran’s work brings us closer to this reality.
Making a difference in unexpected ways
The impact of Dr Gran’s research extends far beyond the confines of a laboratory. By advancing our understanding of skin diseases, her work has the potential to improve public health policies and educational programmes. This means that more people can be informed about the risks of skin cancer and the importance of regular check-ups.
Moreover, Dr Gran’s commitment to teaching and mentoring the next generation of medical researchers ensures that her work will continue to inspire and influence future discoveries. Her dedication was recognised with the prestigious Lord Dearing Group Teaching Award, highlighting her significant contributions to the Master of Public Health Programme.
Why this matters to you
You might wonder, how does this affect me? The answer is simple: healthier skin means a healthier you. Skin cancer can affect anyone, and early detection is key. Dr Gran’s research can lead to innovations that make screenings more accessible and treatments more effective. By supporting this kind of research, we are investing in a future where our skin health is better understood and protected.
Conclusion
In a world where skin diseases can disrupt lives, Dr Sonia Gran’s work shines like a beacon of hope. Her research not only pushes the boundaries of medical knowledge but also brings tangible benefits to people’s lives. From improving early detection of skin cancer to paving the way for new treatments, the significance of her work cannot be overstated.
So next time you look in the mirror, remember the incredible science working to keep your skin healthy. Let’s celebrate and support the brilliant minds like Dr Sonia Gran who are making the world a better place, one breakthrough at a time.