BSc (Hons) Genetics - graduated in 2009
"When I started out studying Science at UCD, I didn't have my heart set on any degree in particular. I am very inquisitive by nature – always wanting to know more about everything, from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, to Psychology and Computer Programming.
When choosing my modules in first year I chose from all these areas (thanks to the flexibility of the Horizons programme), making sure to try my hand at everything until I found what I liked. After a module in first year on 'Cells, Genes & Microbes' I was hooked. I knew Genetics was for me. What could be more interesting than finding the answers to questions about life itself? How did we evolve from single celled organisms? How does incredibly stable DNA give rise to highly dynamic organisms? How do genes relate to disease? The latter is what I hope to study after finishing my degree.
We actually know the genetic cause of many hereditary diseases. To cure many of them all that is needed is to insert a working copy of the gene behind the disease into the affected cells. However, in most cases we still need to develop a robust system of delivering the gene therapy.
After my four years at UCD, I feel that I am well equipped to contribute to such a field."
George is about to start a PhD in Trinity College Dublin, with the Ovarian Cancer Biology Group, situated on the grounds of St. James Hospital.
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