Robert Maughan

Robert Maughan

Why did you choose to study BHLS?

I chose the BHLS degree because I had a strong interest in Biology and Science in secondary school. Although I didn’t want to pursue medicine, the BHLS programme appealed to me because it seemed to be aiming to provide a good understanding of both the clinical side and scientific/molecular side of disease.

What made you choose UCD?

I chose UCD primarily because it had the degree I wanted! However, my brothers and my parents also studied here so that played a role. UCD also has a great reputation for clubs, societies, sports and craic in general.

What was the most interesting part of the course for you?

The most interesting part of the course as my fourth year project. As part of my project I worked in a clinical research lab, co-located with the Mater hospital, for a number of months. It was a great experience as I was working in the same building as research nurses, clinical doctors and scientific personnel alike.

What advice would you give to prospective students who are thinking of taking the course?

If you, like me are looking for a course which goes straight for the human aspects of biology rather than the animal or plant sciences, then this course is definitely suitable.

Can you tell us what you’re doing following graduation?

I’m currently doing a PhD programme in Computational Infection Biology. I’ve followed on from work I started for my fourth year undergraduate project, and I am investigating the toxicities that anti-HIV drugs elicit in fat tissues.

Where do you see yourself working in 10 years?

I would like to say that I will still be in research. However, some things seem to change very fast so I’m going to focus on one project at a time.