“I love the subject and sharing it with others, nurturing their curiosity and understanding.” Dr Andrew Taylor chose to study for a PhD in physics (space science) because he thought “studying things flying around the Solar System would be cool.” And although he says he has “never had a career-track-oriented thought process in my life, just stayed open to possibilities” the work became the foundation for a lifelong passion. Among his many other interests, Andrew still loves tracking satellites, doing research, sharing his work with his willing collaborators in the classroom and inspiring his students to also be open to possibilities as they explore the realms of science. According to the VIA Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues, the Virtue of Wisdom encompasses creativity, curiosity, judgement, love of learning and perspective. Along with perseverance, zest, self- regulation, humility, humour and gratitude, these are all perhaps the essential characteristics required by anyone who aspires to do a PhD. Learning for learning’s sake is an important aspect of the best education, and who knows where it might lead?
“ I’d always loved teaching –at university and training at work– it gaveme a lot of satisfaction. I enjoy learning and facilitating a passion formy subject,and I’mvery lucky to teach biology,which is so relevant and personal ” Dr Graeme Swanson
Field work for Dr Briar Wait’s PhD in environmental chemistry took her to Antarctica. She made four trips to the frozen continent and, despite the cold, isolation and sheer hard work, loved it every time. “Antarctica is unforgettable. It’s such a unique experience being
After completing his PhD in applied psychology, Dr Neil de Joux headed to England to work as a lecturer and researcher at Nottingham University. But as he got further down the academic path, he realised he needed to make a change. “I’ve always taught in some way or another and it’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing. I decided I wanted a career that I enjoy. “I’m passionate about getting my students to the level where they are confident in their abilities and try to create a classroom environment where students can back themselves to give complex questions a go. I want them to take risks with their work, make mistakes, and learn from them.” Dr Anna Johnston already had several years teaching experience under her belt when she decided to go back to university and pursue a PhD in geography (coastal geomorphology). “I loved teaching but decided to see if research was the way I wanted to go. It was great being a mature student as I was more focused on my studies. I was doing a PhD because the subject interested me, and I was looking to further my own knowledge and understanding.” In the end, however, teaching reeled her back in, and she loves sharing her passion for geography and science, for how the world works, with her students.
a scientist down there, a real privilege. It’s easy to assume
chemistry means you’re wearing a white coat and working in a lab. For me it’s camping on an ice shelf and collecting ice and water samples.” For a long time Briar thought she would stay in the tertiary sector, but then realised it was not the way she wanted to work. “I like to work closely and build relationships with people, ignite the spark, see them get inspired.” Dr Tom Hawkins was awarded a Commonwealth Scholarship to study for a PhD in marine biology in New Zealand, and soon made a new life for himself down under. He chose teaching because it dawned on him that it had become “the most enjoyable part of my work life.” “I enjoy opening people’s eyes to new ways of thinking and watching them take their own steps in scientific discovery. I encourage them to develop their questioning mindset and to become comfortable (but never satisfied) with a state of ignorance. The humility gained by realising how much is yet to be known is invaluable.”
College Issue 38 2020
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