David MacTaggart’s placement at the University of Glasgow
| Nuffield Research Placement student, 2001
University of Glasgow (Mathematics & Physiology) Mathematical modelling of neurons |
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The project was about the mathematical modelling of neurons. In particular, the focus was on determining if different types of neurons were statistically similar or different.
What was the highlight/best bit of your placement?
The placement opened my eyes to the possibilities and freedom of academic research. It was a completely different experience from school and I got to work with highly skilled and enthusiastic people.
The placement opened my eyes to the possibilities and freedom of academic research. It was a completely different experience from school and I got to work with highly skilled and enthusiastic people.”David MacTaggart
What was the your least favourite part of the placement?
It was a glorious summer and leaving was my least favourite part. I would not experience that kind of academic freedom again until my PhD.
What is your current role? If you are currently studying, what course are you doing?
I am currently a Lecturer in Applied Mathematics at the University of Glasgow.
What path did you take after finishing you NRP and how has that led you to where you are today?
I started my degree at Glasgow the following year. I then followed an academic research route (PhD, postdoc, permanent position) until, eventually, returning to Glasgow where it all started. The NRP gave me that initial injection of enthusiasm for mathematical research. After completing the NRP I knew what I wanted to do.
If you could give one piece of advice to Nuffield students about to start a placement what would it be?
Enjoy your time and make the most of it. If you start a placement, like I did, whilst still at school, it is likely that you won’t experience such independent research again until you undertake a PhD.
What would your advice be to young people thinking about a career in STEM?
I would recommend a solid grounding in mathematics. Having this will open up many new possibilities for you, no matter what science you choose to pursue.
