Student profiles

Alinda
India
Genetics & Molecular Medicine (Research Division) MPhil/PhD, option of joint PhD with HKU
I chose King’s because I enjoyed my time as an undergraduate student. What I found particularly attractive about studying at King’s are the facilities available to postgraduate students. There are lots of free training opportunities that are useful.
At the academic level, I found the level of supervision very useful. Not only do I meet frequently with my supervisor but we fill out monitoring reports. The reports are very useful for discussing progress with my supervisor and making sure that I'm heading in the right direction.
I was awarded the Overseas Research Students Awards Scholarship and the King’s Graduate student awards. These awards cover my tuition fees for the course of the three years. This has helped me considerably as I am an international student.
I plan to stay in academia. After completing my studies, I will apply for a post-doctoral fellowship. I am sure the skills and experience that I obtain throughout the course of my PhD will be invaluable for the future.

Katie
UK
Genetics & Molecular Medicine (Research Division) MPhil/PhD, option of joint PhD with HKU
Having completed my undergraduate degree in Genetics, I was keen to take my studies further and undertake a PhD. King’s College was at the top of my list because of its worldwide reputation for both teaching and research.
I was awarded a PhD studentship at the College, funded by the BBSRC, which has enabled me to work at the forefront of scientific research in a stimulating and supportive environment. In addition, I have attended an international conference, funded by the College where I was able to present my current data. There is also a wide range of very good courses available to all graduate students to aid development and to gain valuable transferable skills.
As well as my academic studies, I am a member of the KCLMS badminton team and play against other universities in and around London. I have also had a great time playing ultimate frisbee, which I would never have done unless it was offered at King’s. Whatever your interests, there will be a club or society out there for you to get involved with. Living in London is a fantastic experience, there is never a dull moment and you will never run out of places to go or things to see. It may be expensive, but the London weighting on the studentships makes it very affordable.
King’s has given me the perfect training and personal skills in order to compete for any top research job throughout the world. I intend to continue my research career, starting with a job in Europe. I would recommend King’s College to anyone looking to advance their career in scientific research.

Mandy
UK
Genetics & Molecular Medicine (Research Division) MPhil/PhD, option of joint PhD with HKU
The genetic epidemiology research group of the Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics is well-established, with many experienced and knowledgeable researchers who are a joy to work with. I am funded by two very supportive bodies (MRC and the Generation Trust) so I can fully concentrate on my research.
The department is located at Guy's Campus which has excellent transport links. It is convenient both for external speakers and for students to attend outside seminars. Moreover, the renowned Borough Market is just five minutes' walk away - the smell of fresh and natural foods are a fabulous way to de-stress! The New Hunt's House library is now open 24 hours which gives more flexibility to students.
London is a cosmopolitan place where you can enjoy all sorts of different activities and most of the places can be visited free of charge. Get the young persons rail card and the student Oyster card once you have started the programme. This saves you money on transport. Before applying for any part-time job, it's a good idea to check how many hours your sponsorship allows you to work.
I still have two years to complete my PhD and do not have future plans as yet. I truly believe however, that with the high reputation of King's graduates and the extensive network with the health industries, there will be many opportunities for me to pursue. If anyone is considering studying in London, I highly recommend King's.