Hear from Robert and Faridah, who both took part in the In2research 2023/24 programme and completed placements at the UCL Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy (STEaPP). Many thanks to Professor Irina Brass for hosting our participants!
Why did you apply for In2research? Why did the programme appeal to you?
Robert: There’s a certain sort of archetype that I don’t necessarily fit in, but I was always interested in maybe having a career in research. So I think that’s where the persistence came to get a research opportunity like this, to figure it out and to see if it’s something I could do as a career. I think my younger self would be surprised but in terms of research, there’s always something for you and something that is always going to interest you – I’ve really enjoyed the experience.
Faridah: It seemed like a really good opportunity, because mentorship is so important. Because it’s a programme specifically for widening access, it made me a lot more comfortable when applying because it is actually tailored towards me. Before the programme, I didn’t even understand what postgraduate research was.
Tell us a bit about your placement – what was your research project about?
Robert: Our research project was all about dealing with patient-centricity when it comes to implementing digital tools in primary care. A lot of the things we focused on was within the primary care setting because it’s the first port of call when it comes to our healthcare and being treated. We had a specific focus on chronic conditions because those patients are typically ones that interact with that level of primary care the most, and they deal with their conditions long-term. So we wanted to get a long-term idea of how central the patient is when it comes to implementing these digital tools.
Faridah: Essentially, we’ve done a literature review that specifically focused on chronic disease patients in primary care due to its prevalence. Being in this environment at the office at the UCL Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy (STEaPP), they were so welcoming. They looked at us just like one of their colleagues. We’ve got a page on the STEaPP website summarizing the whole project, including the policy brief we’re drafting.
What has been the highlight of the placement for you?
Robert: I think looking back on how the project has developed step-by-step. To be able to say I’ve developed from this question to a fully fledged literature review to a presentation and a policy paper that’s going to come out. And our host Irina’s been great since day one. She very much settled us in and gave us all the information that we needed to know. She really made sure that we were accommodated and supported us all the way.
Faridah: I think being introduced to a welcoming environment. We got the sense that everyone really wanted us to succeed, which can be easy to forget when you have to be so self-motivated. It was so nice to be surrounded by people who believe in you, so I think those first couple of days really put a pep in my step! Our host was super kind and approachable and walked us through every step of our placement.
What new skills have you learnt? Has the programme improved your confidence?
Robert: Just learning how to be a researcher! It’s opened my eyes to all sorts of daily tasks which it involves, like conducting a literature review and going through papers, staying organised and presenting. Initially approaching a professional can be quite difficult, but now I’m fairly confident that I can approach someone and discuss my interest in their work as well as my work too.
Faridah: I think it has encouraged me to be more confident when presenting myself in an environment like this. I can speak to professionals now – I have learnt to assimilate in this environment. It’s improved my confidence in myself and in the knowledge I have. Teamwork was also a huge one, because I have been working with Robert throughout the whole thing, which was really nice.
What impact has In2research had on your future career plans?
Robert: I definitely want to do a PhD in the future, whether that’s the opportunities I get while I’m in medical school or afterwards. It’s definitely something I’m considering – It’s a case of when it’s going to happen, not if.
Faridah: I’m leaning more towards the academic side of medicine towards a research career. I really like the flexibility and thinking critically about things. It’s really nice to have this avenue to hear about all of these research opportunities.
What would you say to someone thinking of doing the In2research programme?
Robert: Do it! You won’t regret it. It means I’ve created this piece of work I’m really proud of.
Faridah: Definitely apply! I would say apply and be genuine about what you’re interested in.
Robert and Faridah’s In2research 2023/24 placements were sponsored by the UCL Faculty of Engineering – a special thanks to them for their support. If your organisation is interested in sponsoring a placement, find out more by visiting our supporters’ page.