In this month’s newsletter, we would like to introduce PhD graduate, Bridget Mooney from College of College of Medicine and Public Health
Bridget’s recently submitted thesis, “Environment-dependent regulation of mitosis and cytokinesis by AMP-Activated Protein Kinase” received outstanding results from the examiners.
We asked Bridget to share what her inspired to her start a PhD and the highlights of the journey.
What was your research about?
My research characterised the role of the protein AMPK in regulating mitosis and cell division in response to environmental stress. Ultimately, understanding how AMPK regulates these processes reveals potential therapeutic targets to block cancer cell proliferation.
What led you to undertake a PhD? What inspired or motivated you?
During my undergraduate studies at Flinders my favourite topics were always those that focussed on cell biology, and even better if there was a lab or practical component to the topic. To combine both these interests, I undertook a research placement at the Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer (FCIC), where I used the model organism Schizosaccharomyces pombe (a single-celled yeast) to study how cells respond to changes in their metabolism. I thoroughly enjoyed this placement and stayed at FCIC to do an honours year, but I changed projects to focus more on my interest of microscopy and cell division.
Ultimately, I was inspired to undertake a PhD because of my curiosity to understand to the natural world, and a desire to contribute to solving one of the greatest health challenges, cancer. Cancer Council Australia estimates that 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, making it a global issue that affects every family in one way or another. A PhD presented an opportunity to explore the biology behind the disease and uncover new, meaningful insights. Combining my love for understanding how life works at its most fundamental level, along with the chance to make a real impact in the lives of people with cancer was the motivation behind my decision.
What was been one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey?
I always loved the thrill of discovering something new, like looking down a microscope and seeing a phenotype that you might be the first person in the world to uncover. Those moments were always very rewarding after a lot of hard work! Attending national and international conferences was also a highlight during my PhD journey. Being able to share my research with leading experts and receive their feedback and input into my project was invaluable.
I was also fortunate to be able to undertake a 2-month research placement at the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, under the supervision of Professor Iain Hagan. Here, I learnt techniques which improved my methodology for assessing cell division in human cell cultures. Not only did the experience strengthen my technical skills, but it also broadened my perspective on how research can translate into real-world impact.
What was highlight of your student life at Flinders?
One of the highlights of student life at Flinders was the sense of community. Undertaking a PhD is hard, there are challenges that can arise, both academic and personal, and having a community of people to support you through these challenges was vital. The research environment was very inclusive, where I always felt like an equal among my supervisors and lab mates. Outside of the lab, a group of us students formed a quiz team that regularly attended trivia nights at The Tav, which was a great way to relax and bond.
What advice would you give to those who are about to undertake a PhD?
In research, your value isn’t defined by a single outcome. Experiments fail, data surprises us and plans change. What truly matters is resilience and perseverance, these qualities will take you further than perfection ever could.
There will be hard days, but you can do hard things! The world will keep changing, technology will evolve, and new challenges will arise, but curiosity and adaptability will be your greatest tools. Believe in yourself, even when imposter syndrome tries to convince you otherwise.