In this month’s newsletter, we would like to introduce PhD student, Richard Bright from the College of Medicine and Public Health.
Richard’s recently submitted thesis, “Enhancing osseointegration and preventing implant-associated infections through biomimetic nano-modifications” received outstanding results from the examiners.
We asked Richard to share what led him to a Phd and why it is important, the most enjoyable and hardest parts of a PhD journey and what the future holds.
What led you to undertake a PhD? What inspired or motivated you?
Having witnessed a family member endure an implant-associated infection post-implant surgery, I was deeply moved to delve into preventative measures for such occurrences. This personal experience ignited a passion within me to explore innovative ways to mitigate the risks associated with implant infections. It fuelled my determination to contribute to the development of solutions that could potentially enhance the safety and effectiveness of medical implants and devices. Through my research, I aimed to not only address the challenges faced by individuals undergoing such surgeries but also to make meaningful contributions to the broader field of medical science,
Tell us about your research
As a Research Fellow in the Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory at the College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, my work revolves around microbiology, molecular and cell biology, with a particular emphasis on understanding how bacteria interact with mammalian cells on biomaterials. Alongside my current role, I bring a wealth of experience gained from previous endeavours in dental, stem cell, and cancer research, which have included involvement in various industry-based projects.
What was one of the hardest parts of the journey?
The PhD journey presented numerous challenges, such as research hurdles, time management issues, feelings of isolation, self-doubt, balancing work, and personal life, writing difficulties, financial constraints, and managing relationships. Overcoming these challenges demands resilience, effective coping mechanisms, and a strong support system. Despite the hardships, successfully navigating through these difficulties fostered both personal and academic development.
How did you overcome any challenges of doing a PhD?
In essence, surmounting challenges throughout my PhD journey required resilience, a strong support network, adept time management, and a readiness to seek assistance when necessary. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy work-life balance helped prevent burnout and fostered overall well-being, enabling me to approach challenges with a clear mind and renewed energy. Finally, maintaining a positive mindset and staying focused on the goal of completing the PhD kept me motivated and determined to overcome any hurdles encountered along the way.
What was been one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey?
Reaching significant milestones, such as publishing papers, and presenting at conferences can be incredibly rewarding and serve as validation for the years of hard work and dedication put into the PhD journey.
What advice would you give to those who are about to undertake a PhD?
Embarking on a PhD requires careful planning and aligning personal motivations with long-term goals. Choosing an inspiring research topic and finding a supportive supervisor are crucial steps for success. Developing a structured research plan, adapting to changes, and managing time effectively are essential for maintaining focus and progress. Collaboration with peers and seeking feedback enriches the research experience. Prioritising well-being and celebrating milestones help maintain resilience and motivation.
Tell us about yourself
I’ve harboured a longstanding passion for medical research, recognizing its significant impact on public health. My journey has led me through diverse research laboratories, delving into areas such as Immunobiology, cancer and stem cell research. Alongside my professional pursuits, I indulge in my love for health and wellness, often enjoying outdoor activities and engaging in weightlifting. I aspire to build a career centred around my areas of expertise, aiming to eventually lead my own research team in the near future.
During my PhD journey, I published 28 papers, six of which were as the first author in high-impact journals. Details of my publications can be found at Google Scholar or Research @Flinder
Since completion of my PhD, I have been offered a position as a post-doctoral researcher in the Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory at Flinders University.