In this month’s newsletter, we would like to introduce PhD graduate, Shyan Vijayasekaran from the College of Medicine and Public Health.
Shyan’s recently submitted thesis, “The Evolving Management of Children with Complex Aero-Digestive Disorders” received outstanding results from the examiners.
We asked Shyan 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 was your research about?
My research was a 20-year journey that focussed on the management of complex paediatric airway and swallowing disorders.
Tell us about your research
My research focused on children with complex conditions affecting the entire upper aero-digestive tract, addressing a variety of anatomical issues and pathologies that impact breathing, swallowing, and voice. These conditions, whether congenital or acquired, required a thorough evaluation of the underlying pathologies. My aim was to assess current treatment algorithms and explore improved approaches for managing these challenging disorders.
Tell us about yourself
I am a surgeon specializing in paediatric otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, with a deep passion for managing complex airway and swallowing disorders in children. My goal is to help children who rely on tubes and devices for breathing and swallowing achieve the most normal function possible. I currently practice at Perth Children’s Hospital and volunteer at hospitals in India and Africa, where there is a significant need for specialized care for these complex cases.
What led you to undertake a PhD? What inspired or motivated you?
I was motivated to keep evolving, learning and innovating in my field to improve the outcomes for my patients.
What was been one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey?
The fact that I remained curious and never stopped learning.
What was been one of the hardest parts of the journey?
Some of the administrative things, minor really
How did your supervisors support you during your candidature?
Prof Ooi was awesome.
How did you overcome any challenges of doing a PhD?
Yoga and meditation. I don’t know how anybody gets through life without this.
What advice would you give to those who are about to undertake a PhD?
Enjoy the journey!
How has your PhD influenced your future career? Where do you see your career heading in the future?
It was a long term goal of mine and has been an amazing process of personal and professional development.
How has your PhD helped you in the role you are in now?
I have continued to grow and learn from the experience the journey continues.
What have you been doing since you completed?
I continue to work in my current field of practice with a plan to spend more time volunteering in countries where there is a need for my skills and experience.
Have you published anything?
I continue to publish with the most recent list available at: https://scholar.google.com.au/citations?user=F6CumqcAAAAJ&hl=en