Full name: Daniel Josef Lindegger
Degree title and year of programme: Research Pathways in Advanced Therapeutics MSc (2021-23), Bioscience Entrepreneurship MSc (2020-21)
In this interview with Daniel, we learn more about Daniel’s experience of studying at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology. Daniel is currently a student on the Research Pathways in Advanced Therapeutics MSc, and previously graduated from the Bioscience Entrepreneurship MSc in 2021. Daniel was also one of the Institute’s International Excellence Scholars.
1. Why did you choose to study your programme and what made you choose the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology?
The decision to study for the current Master degree was derived from my motivation to extend my knowledge and skills as a clinically-oriented ophthalmologist into a scientific field. Advanced therapeutics are becoming increasingly important as a result of the new regenerative and molecular methods developed over the recent years. I chose to study at UCL because the Institute of Ophthalmology has an excellent international reputation and teaching faculty in addition to lab facilities in the heart of London.
2. What did you enjoy most about your programme?
I undertook an interesting research project for my thesis on the metabolism of stem cells which allowed me to gain skills in handling different types of stem cells and conducting a structured metabolic assay. As part of the degree program, I decided to undertake a lab rotation overseas to the University of Sydney where I am based at the moment.
3. What impact has receiving the scholarship had for you?
I have received an international excellence scholarship which involved a reduction of the program fees. It is helpful for my prospective career in research to be able to document that I have received a scholarship.
4. What advice would you give prospective students thinking of studying at the Institute of Ophthalmology?
I would advise prospective students to bring an adequate interest and motivation for the subject that they intend to study and to try to benefit as much as they can from the many opportunities that the institute has to offer; from lectures, lab sessions, meetings to networking events.
5. What are your plans for the future once you have completed your degree?
A goal I wanted to achieve was to become a clinician-scientist. What I will do after completion of the degree will depend on what options I will have.
6. Is there anything else you would like to say about your time at the Institute of Ophthalmology?
I would like to thank the faculty, tutors, postdocs, assistance and the lab teams for delivering interesting lectures and providing support on the research work.
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You can learn more about the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology’s International Excellence Scholarship here.