My MSc got me a place on the STP for Cancer Genomics at King’s College Hospital

"During the final year of my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry and Genetics at the University of Sheffield, I learned about the MSc in Human and Molecular Genetics. I was initially drawn to this MSc because I undertook a 6-week clinical diagnostics project which gave me an insight into what the course would entail. I’ve always had an interest in genetics and how we can integrate new technologies in detecting the causes of human diseases more quickly and accurately, and I applied to the MSc knowing I would have the opportunities to learn a lot more from research projects and lecture modules. From my time in the [School of Biosciences] I already knew of the high standard of education that I would be receiving and decided that continuing to study here was probably a good way to further develop my skills.

"Coming to Sheffield was definitely a happy accident and I’ve been very fortunate to have participated in a lot of voluntary events with Red Frogs UK, joined multiple societies, contributed to world-class research and made what I hope to be lifelong friendships. I believe I’ve had a great experience in Sheffield and have definitely benefited from studying here.

"During my MSc I enjoyed being able to gain a better understanding of the methods behind a range of techniques such as Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). I enjoyed gaining competence at these skills as it increased my suitability to jobs I was interested in. Additionally, I was fortunate enough to be one of four students who carried out a three-month research project in Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service (SDGS). I was able to gain a lot of experience from working in a UKAS-accredited laboratory and was able to help in the diagnosis of patients with haematological malignancies through karyotyping. Furthermore, we were able to design primers which could be used in the future for detecting mutations in genes responsible for connective tissue disorders, and we were able to successfully use droplet digital PCR as a novel detection method for TP53 mutations in a chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) patient.

"The placement within SDGS was valuable as I was able to gain an understanding of the day to day responsibilities of Clinical Scientists and Genetic Technologists which was important in my applications for these jobs. Equally, my supervisors at SDGS and [the School] gave me a plethora of information in regards to my applications and interviews. Though not every interview was successful, I was able to gain confidence in the fact that my experience gave me the opportunity to be selected for interview. As a result, I have worked as a MTO – Genetic Technologist within the cytogenetics department for The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust Sutton.

I was able to use the skills from my MSc to be competent as a Genetic Technologist and consequently, I have been able to gain a place onto the STP for a role in Cancer Genomics. I will be working at King’s College Hospital in London, where I’ll be able to delve deeper into the field of cancer genomics to a greater degree and work towards clinical registration. Exciting times!

Anthony Balogun

Degree: MSc Human and Molecular Genetics

"Working in a UKAS-accredited lab part of the North London GLH was a great experience and allowed me to gain a great insight into the field of cancer. I was able to use the skills from my MSc to be competent as a Genetic Technologist and consequently, I have been able to gain a place onto the STP for a role in Cancer Genomics. I will be working at King’s College Hospital in London, where I’ll be able to delve deeper into the field of cancer genomics to a greater degree and work towards clinical registration. Exciting times!"