1. My PhD Journey
By Chloe Spalding

2. A little bit about myself…
2nd year Applied Mathematics PhD student
area of research is Mathematical Biology
specifically the population dynamics of bacteria in the presence of antibiotics
in my 6th year at Birmingham
enjoy sport, music and cooking

3. My Journey to a PhD decided that a PhD was for me, aged 6
I started my undergraduate degree at Birmingham in I quickly transferred to the 4 year MSci course.
undertook a small research project in 3rd year.
re-engaged with research in my 4th year dissertation under the supervision of my current supervisor, Dr Sara Jabbari.
graduated in July 2014, learnt that there was EPSRC funding available for a PhD under Sara’s supervision, with co-supervisor Dr David Smith

4. How did I secure my PhD I had to put in an application to my school.
this included a project proposal
I had an interview with my supervisor and co-supervisor.
more importantly…I had to get a first!!!

5. Life as a PhD student. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
9am-11am
Computer Lab
9-10am Lecture
12-1pm Lecture
2-3pm Seminar
3-5pm Teaching
3-4pm Examples Class
4-5pm Supervision with Sara
3-5pm Cake Club
…and marking!!

6. Opportunities so far…
Teaching, advances my basic mathematical knowledge
Speaking at conferences
Became a Westmere scholar this year
Staying at university has allowed me to carry on playing with my Birmingham sports teams.

7. How will it support my career aspirations.
Academia is not the only option.
I will probably go into industry and my PhD will have provided me with many skills to help me:
Stand out as an applicant
Apply myself in various job sectors and roles.
Research has taught me to be patient and has developed many skills:
Presentation
Analytics
Problem Solving
Time Management

8. Are there any questions??
Thank you for listening….
Are there any questions??