In this month’s newsletter, we would like to introduce PhD graduate, Lauren Newman from the College of Medicine and Public Health.

Lauren’s recently submitted thesis, “EVolving the Liquid Biopsy: Extracellular Vesicles for Assessing Liver Function and Disease” received outstanding results from the examiners.

We asked Lauren to share what led her to a PhD and why it is important, the most enjoyable and hardest parts of a PhD journey and what the future holds.

What was your research about in 1-2 sentences?

In my research, I study nanosized particles called extracellular vesicles that are released from liver cells and can be extracted from the blood. I investigated the molecules they carry for their roles as biomarkers to inform on liver functions and support disease diagnosis and prediction of drug exposure and treatment response, with the overall aim to develop personalised treatment strategies.

What was been one of the hardest parts of the journey?

You have to be so patient for the rewards of hard work. It is a real test of resilience and your tolerance for long-term gratification.

How did you overcome any challenges of doing a PhD?

By leaning on the incredible support of close friends and family, who were always there to talk things through when it felt overwhelming. I also kept up my hobbies for a good life balance of working hard and having fun!

What advice would you give to those who are about to undertake a PhD?  

Attend as many conferences as you can, take the opportunities to expand your network and practise explaining your research to be concise and engaging.

Take ownership and responsibility for your project, your ideas and your journey, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

What have you been doing since you completed?

I went on an overseas holiday! I was fortunate to spend 2 weeks exploring Sri Lanka, followed by 2 weeks relaxing on Greek islands. Now I am back in the lab continuing my research.

Have you published anything?

I have published eight peer-reviewed journal articles as first author and was a contributing author on another five.

These can be accessed via my Google Scholar profile: https://scholar.google.com.au/citations?user=NUdUWq4AAAAJ&hl=en