Studying a historical landmark has inspired my future
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science student Enus Fina talks about a placement with the world-famous Roman Baths that has guided his thinking for the future
I've known for some time that I want to work in healthcare. But I've always considered myself a bit of an introvert, so I was fairly sure a patient-facing role wasn't for me. I chose to study the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science course because I was really excited about the prospect of working in the laboratories. It’s been brilliant to have the chance to do that, and it has given me the opportunity to work in the quiet and methodical way I was hoping.
The opportunity to work at the Roman Baths came about a little bit by chance. I was looking for a placement, and had the chance to do this or one with the NHS. Given my hope of working in healthcare, I wasn’t sure which to choose but – looking back now – I am really pleased with my choice.
Working at the Roman Baths has granted me much-needed experience and knowledge which has helped me tremendously in finding direction in my life and career.
It was fascinating to go to the baths and to see the various hot springs. But most of my work as part of the project was to maintain and test some of the bacterial isolates for antimicrobial activity. I worked with upwards of 300 phenotypically different isolates which I kept alive and tested for antimicrobial producing capabilities. I was also exposed to different opportunities observing more senior scientists working on their respective specialties like plasma mass spectrometry and 16s rRNA metagenomic sequencing.
We discovered upwards of 50 antimicrobial producing bacteria, which could be producing potentially novel antimicrobials. Furthermore, from the metagenomic sequencing results, we found that the hot spring had a plethora of bacteria which are of industrial interest. This is something that could have real impact when you consider the current global efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance.
One thing that I found surprising and interesting was the observation that some bacteria were producing antimicrobials when subjected to different growth conditions. I was aware of this possibility, as it pertains to the principle of ‘one strain many compounds’ (OSMAC), but observing it first-hand was a very exciting and unique experience.
Writing up these findings and using them as the basis for my dissertation brought me quite a lot of stress and grief but, overall, I really enjoyed it. Looking back, this aspect of the course was the most memorable and gratifying part of my degree. I enjoyed conducting my own research, and it is also fantastic that my work has now been published in a scientific journal.
After I graduate, I am aiming to do a Master’s in drug development or pharmaceutical engineering. The placement with the Roman Baths and working with scientists in the labs here in °µÍø½âÃÜ has taught me many things about drug discovery and drug development. I am now hoping to pursue it as a career.
If you are keen to understand disease pathways, and interested in working in a laboratory environment, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science is the degree for you. It will provide you a direct pathway to becoming a biomedical scientist in the NHS but can also be used as a basis to pursue other healthcare-related careers.
My advice would be to be mindful of time and to study – the topics you will cover are complex, but put in the time and hard work and it is perfectly achievable. Furthermore, make sure to reach out and talk to your lecturers as they genuinely care and want you to succeed.
Pulling the plug on antimicrobial resistance
Since the discovery of penicillin, antibiotics have been crucial in treating infections and enabling medical procedures, but a lack of proper regulations around their use is placing their effectiveness at risk, increasing the spread of drug-resistant infections. Without urgent action, even routine medical treatments could become life-threatening.
On this project, researchers are investigating microbial isolates from the Roman Baths to discover new antimicrobial compounds and spread awareness about AMR by engaging directly with the public.
Start your own healthcare journey with a degree in biomedical science
Experience research-informed education by exploring the scientific basis of human health, disease and therapeutics. You'll benefit from a rich and varied learning environment that highlights recent developments and examines how these inform clinical and diagnostic practice.
Receive the input of internationally-recognised researchers and NHS staff and open up a range of employment opportunities in both industrial and public research laboratories.
