"I take pride in being part of this international community of researchers."

Harry Roussos is a second-year PhD student in Developmental Biology from Cyprus. His research into the Notch signaling pathway in animals has vital applications for the treatment of human disease. Recipient of the jointly funded PDN studentship award, he makes up a growing community of PDN scholars at Wolfson. 

Can you summarise your route to Wolfson? What did you do before starting your PhD here?

Before commencing my PhD at Wolfson, I studied the Mathematical Tripos and Part III in Systems Biology at another Cambridge College, Hughes Hall. During Part III, I carried out a research project at Professor Sarah Bray’s lab in the Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience. The positive collaboration and my enjoyment of the research inspired me to pursue a PhD at the Bray Lab. 

Can you explain your project in simple terms? Why is your topic important, or relevant to the world today?

In simple terms, my research focuses on the Notch pathway, a highly conserved signaling system in animals, crucial for developmental decisions. The goal is to understand the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms in the Notch pathway and how they translate into different transcriptional responses.

As Notch pathway dysfunction is linked to various diseases, including cancer, a deeper understanding of its fundamental mechanisms can contribute to advancements in treating human disease.

How did it feel to receive the Wolfson College-PDN scholarship?  Why are scholarships in this field important?

Receiving the Wolfson College-PDN scholarship was a tremendous honour, especially given its competitiveness amongst students with strong academic backgrounds. This scholarship not only facilitated my pursuit of a PhD but also integrated me into Wolfson College. 

In my field, where labs often lack funding for PhD students, scholarships like these provide essential opportunities for students to undertake vital research. 

How have you found settling into Wolfson life so far? 

Settling into Wolfson has been an exceptionally welcoming experience. The College's international community is warm and inclusive, and I take pride in being a part of it. Since joining, I have actively participated in the College Boat Club - a fantastic way to stay active and forge new friendships.

What are your goals for the future? Do you have any idea where your PhD might take you?

Post-PhD, I aspire to continue in biological research, exploring opportunities in academia and industry.

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This article is part of the 2023/4 Postgraduate Student Profile Series:

• Meet Janella Ajeigbe, MPhil student in Mathematics Education Student
• Meet Afroditi Sakellaropoulou, MPhil student in Ethics of AI, Data and Algorithms
• Meet PhD student Jack Ellis, recipient of Wolfson’s new Geopolitics funding award
• Meet Carmen Embil-Villagra, first year PhD student in Theoretical Physics
• Meet Rafaela Marinho-Fonseca, first year PhD student in Chemistry
• Meet PhD student Jisoo Kim, recipient of a PDN studentship for neuroscience work on vision
• Meet PhD student Ailie McWhinnie, recipient of a PDN studentship for her work in Neuroscience
• Meet Jessica McConnell, first year PhD student in Chemistry
• Meet Chloe Lambdon, MPhil student in English Studies

Applications are still open for the 2024 Wolfson-PDN scholarship, and for many other Wolfson College-specific studentships. Click here to learn more. 

You can also find out how to apply to study for a postgraduate course at Cambridge University as a Wolfson College student, and watch our postgraduate video, introducing the exciting academic and social atmosphere in College.