Current Research Higher Degree Testimonials

Sarah, PhD (Psychiatry)

I started a research higher degree because I wanted a job that was both flexible and challenging, and where I could pursue topics of interest to me. My PhD research is investigating the relationship between the immune system and depression. Often people with depression have an altered immune system which puts them at risk of developing other illnesses. Specifically, I want to examine which risk factors and symptoms of depression contribute most to these effective on the immune system.  One of the most appealing aspects of a career is research is that my research has the potential to effect a whole population and improve the health of people with depression.

Besides the freedom to choose working hours and subject areas, there are many other rewards in doing a RHD. For me, one of the most attractive incentives of a research career is the potential for travel, particularly interstate and overseas. It is also great to meet research colleagues and share an office with like-minded people with a similar passion for generating novel and applied research. People are genuinely interested in the work you are doing and care about your career path.

While I am a long way from finishing, after my PhD I hope to continue my career in academia. For me, the PhD is like a research apprenticeship where I am building the skills to become a competent researcher. For instance, I have noticed improvements in my oral and written communication with the demands of honours and PhD. Further, developing goal setting skills necessary for managing time in the independent learning environment of the PhD will be useful in whatever career I pursue.

While a research higher degree isn’t always glamorous, it is exciting when things fall into place and I feel I am making a difference to the world in novel and interesting ways.

Dan, PhD (Medical Genetics)

I have always had an interest in research. After my Honours year, I took a working holiday where I was employed in several basic jobs that, while easy and occasionally fun, were generally monotonous and unrewarding. This prompted me to commence my PhD, as a start to both fulfilling my personal fascination with research and pursuing the ultimate goal of one day contributing something lasting to science and society.

My research is investigating the health problems that can be present among Australians with high body iron levels.  The current studies focus on the effects of iron on the brain and heart and use genome-wide technology to give insights into the ‘bigger picture’.

Studying a research higher degree has been extremely challenging but also extremely rewarding. Most importantly, it has helped develop my ability to think independently, logically, creatively and critically. It also comes with several perks, including the potential for travel and for collaborating with other researchers at the top of the field. My current career goal is to continue in research in order to try and better understand the marvel that is the human body.

Prue - Masters of Philosophy Design (Natural History Illustration)

Following undergraduate study in fine art, my honours research, which focused on the macro or close-up image in natural history illustration, provided me with the opportunity to indulge my passion for oil painting, while continuing to develop skills in research and other methods of illustration. The written dissertation was an invaluable component that cemented ideas and informed my practical work as the research developed. More importantly, the honours year, including support and constructive input from supervisors, provided the impetus and confidence for me to continue into postgraduate study. I felt that my work was just beginning - I still have so much more to learn and to offer.

My RHD research is entitled Wild Visions: an artistic investigation into animal vision and related environments, which expands on my honours theme with detailed paintings of animal eyes, investigation into their eye function and visual capabilities, and my interpretation of the way their habitats might appear to them. This is an area that has much written about it; one that I believe could be so much more accessible and valuable to a wider audience in visual form.

To date, the research process has been a challenge that I have enjoyed immensely, has improved my communication, artistic and investigative skills and continues to inspire me to see what I can achieve.

Natalie – Masters of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering)

After completing my degree in Environmental Engineering I chose to stay on to research "Climate variability and its impact on ecosystem health".

I decided to undertake an RHD as I enjoy computer modelling and examining data to understand the cause of observed processes. I am inquisitive and like to know why things happen and this is a great opportunity to find out why.

Therefore I am currently building an Australia-wide model of natural climate processes that can be used to understand and predict how the different processes influence rainfall and streamflow across Australia. This model will then be used to assess how the climate processes affect ecological health.
RHD study has helped me to be more independent and improved my ability to think analytically. It also gives me the opportunity to present at different conferences and therefore travel throughout Australia and around the world.

I actually have no idea where this could take my career in the future. There are so many opportunities that I can't possibly just choose one at this point. I am happy to just see where this takes me.