PhD student — Lucy Newman

Lucy is completing her PhD at Newcastle University's School of Pharmacy, Translational and Clinical Research. Discover her advice on choosing a supervisor, securing Research Council funding and finding work after graduation 

Why did you decide on a career in pharmaceutical science?

I enjoyed science in school, but as I got older, I got curious and wondered how medicines were made and how they worked. My undergraduate dissertation and time in industry also cemented my passion for drug research.Ìý

What inspired you to complete a PhD? 

I always aspired to complete a PhD. After finishing my Bachelors degree during the lockdown of 2020, I took a break from academia to see what life was like as a scientist.Ìý 

I really enjoyed my time in industry, but when the opportunity came along to pursue a PhD, I couldn't leave it behind.Ìý

How different is PhD study compared to your Bachelors degree? 

Compared to my undergraduate degree and time working in industry, there isn't as much structure on a PhD - it's self-directed. Industry deadlines have such a quick turnaround, whereas on my PhD, it's often weeks or months before I have the answers.Ìý 

Doing a PhD is totally different from Bachelor studies. Instead of learning what's already known, you generate new ideas and theories to test, solve problems and deep dive into your research field.  

It's challenging but so rewarding to see your research come to life, and being able to share it with other scientists is one of the best parts.Ìý

How was the application process? 

The application process was easier than I anticipated. I was lucky in the sense that the research proposal for the studentship was already written, and it aligned with my interests well. My main focus was to prove to the interviewing panel I was the right candidate.Ìý 

Of course, its always stressful to have to prove yourself, but it makes it so worthwhile getting the acceptance letter.Ìý

What are your plans for when you graduate? 

I'm still exploring my options for post-PhD life; I'm coming up to the halfway mark this year which feels daunting, but I know there are so many places my PhD can take me.Ìý 

I enjoy working in the lab and researching, so I'm considering applying for a post-Doctoral position. This way I can stay in the lab and contribute to my research field for longer.Ìý 

I'm also contemplating an academic role, as I enjoy mentoring and teaching undergraduate students which I've experienced on my PhD.Ìý 

I'm open to any opportunities that arise when I finish and would like something that not only challenges me but is also of personal interest.Ìý 

What issues in the field are you most passionate about?  

So many drugs fail to make it to market despite potentially being life-saving because of poor solubility. If a drug can't be dissolved, it can't be absorbed by our bodies to have that desired effect.Ìý 

My research focuses on looking at ways to tackle this using something called cocrystals as they help improve drug solubility. It's so important to cover these things and research them,  as without, we could be missing out on life-saving medications.Ìý

How are you funding your PhD study? 

My PhD is fully funded through a studentship provided by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation.Ìý 

The studentship covers my tuition fees and provides me with a stipend for living expenses which allows me to focus fully on my research.Ìý 

What tips would you give to others choosing a PhD?  

• Make sure you are genuinely passionate about the research you'll be undertaking - PhDs are a significant commitment and ensuring your interest is sustained throughout is key to staying motivated and enjoying the journey.Ìý
• Research the supervisor leading the project - you want them to share just as much passion as you and having the right guidance can make a huge difference to your experience. I feel so fortunate to have a supervisor who is both super knowledgeable and encouraging.Ìý
• Choose a location you feel most happy and comfortable in - this plays a huge role in our day-to-day mood and being somewhere you feel comfortable can make sure a real difference to your productivity and mental wellbeing.Ìý

Find out more

• Explore PhD studentships.Ìý
• Discover our tips on choosing your PhD supervisor.