My research could have a real impact in regards to improving food security.

Image of Tanya Wilson in a house
Tanya Wilson
EPSRC PhD student
Sustainable Urban Horticulture PhD student, Biosciences
Tanya completed an undergraduate degree in Biology before joining a start-up company as a lab scientist where she was responsible for designing and running laboratory experiments and was involved in the development of their large-scale trials. Tanya's passion for future food security led her to join University of Sheffield as an EPSRC PhD student.

What made you apply for your PhD at University of Sheffield?

The reason I chose to apply for my PhD ‘Sustainable Urban Horticulture: Managing Soils for Nutritional Crops’ was due to my interest in plant physiology. While working at AEH (AEH Hydrogel Limited - a start-up company working to create a sustainable hydrogel to replace environmentally harmful mediums such as peat and rockwool) I gained an interest in Urban Horticulture, particularly it's importance in ensuring future food security. 

The University of Sheffield is a leading research university with a reputation for excellence. It is also located in the greenest city in the UK making the location appealing. Another huge draw for me when it came to studying at the University of Sheffield was the supervisors that were in charge of my project.

The PhD gave me the opportunity to research topics I was passionate about while the EPSRC DTP funding allowed me the financial security to do so.

Tanya Wilson

What's it like being a postgraduate researcher? 

Being a postgraduate researcher is a busy yet enjoyable experience. I am constantly learning new things. I would say the best bit about my research is how varied it is. I get the opportunity to carry out fieldwork as well as experimental work. I also enjoy the fact that the results of my research could have a real impact in regards to improving food security.

What do you hope to do after your PhD? 

I would hope to continue in research and hopefully one day become a professor who can influence and inspire future academics.