Lorna Fern, MSc Oncology (Alumni)
Lorna shares her experience of studying at Nottingham, highlighting how her master's degree opened doors to a successful career in cancer research, and the invaluable support she received throughout her academic journey.
What inspired you to pursue the MSc in Oncology at Nottingham?
“I began the Oncology Master’s programme in 1997 and graduated in 1998. The reason I chose this course was because, despite graduating with a 2:2, I believed I could do better. I also had personal reasons for pursuing cancer research, as we lost a family friend to cancer when I was young. I discovered the MSc in Oncology through New Scientist magazine and successfully applied. I then pursued a PhD at Nottingham, which I completed in 2003.”
What aspects of your course did you enjoy most, and did they influence your career choice?
“What I appreciated most about the course was the small class size. It was a different contrast to my previous experiences with large undergraduate classes, as there were only 22 students in our MSc class, with 14 full-time and the rest part-time. This made the teaching personal and allowed us to build relationships with both classmates and lecturers. I liked the course structure, with lectures coming before exams, and lab projects following separately.”
Top skills you gained from your course?
“In terms of skills gained from the course, it was less about specific skills and more about understanding the multidisciplinary approach to cancer research. I also learned the importance of information retention and critical reading of academic papers.”
“The MSc opened doors for me, as it was a stepping stone to a PhD, which I wouldn't have qualified for without it.”
“I briefly worked in a bone marrow transplant lab and then transitioned into the commercial sector as an Oncology Analyst for Business Intelligence. My extensive knowledge of cancer types, epidemiology, and treatment options proved invaluable during this shift.
Later, I transitioned into my current role, focusing on teenagers and young adults with cancer, addressing a specific age group rather than a single cancer type. My broad oncology knowledge continues to help me every day, especially when working with various tumour-specific groups and their respective treatments.”
Did you have a career plan after graduation?
“My career path wasn't entirely clear when I started the course. Stewart Martin, my tutor, played a crucial role in my journey, as he guided me toward a research path. I ultimately pursued a PhD, which expanded my horizons and enhanced my experience within the clinical field.”
How has the support on offer been?
“Stewart Martin and Claire Seedhouse were instrumental in my academic journey. Stuart took a chance on me despite my lower undergraduate grade and provided continuous support throughout. Claire, who joined during my PhD, became a mentor, guiding me through the challenges and ensuring I completed my doctorate.”
Any advice for current students on the course?
“For pursuing a PhD, carefully evaluate the feasibility of your project and consider research options beyond the lab. Various science-based roles exist, such as medical writing or public relations, providing alternative career paths. Look beyond the lab, there are many opportunities out there.”
“Success, to me, means having a job I'm passionate about, making a difference, and working with a supportive team, even during challenging projects.”
“My current role involves working with young people and patient public involvement, which I find most rewarding. Collaborating with young individuals in research projects and making a positive impact in cancer care is a fulfilling aspect of my work. While I don't particularly enjoy writing grant applications, receiving grants is a satisfying achievement.”
What does ‘success’ look like for you?
“My current role involves working with young people and patient public involvement, which I find most rewarding. Collaborating with young individuals in research projects and making a positive impact in cancer care is a fulfilling aspect of my work. While I don't particularly enjoy writing grant applications, receiving grants is a satisfying achievement.”