Biological Research Intern – Shami Alvarez Mourid
Shami travelled from Spain to the UK for a 6-month Biological Research Internship in Oxford.
What was your motivation to apply for this biological research internship?
My motivation was to gain experience in a research lab, to improve my abilities and to develop myself as a future scientist working on the discovery of novel therapies.
In what ways do you think you were developed as a professional during your biological research internship?
Through this internship, I gained a thorough understanding of a how a research lab works. Because I learned to work with highly qualified scientists, I grew outside of my comfort zone and worked with equipment that I didn’t even know existed before. I most enjoyed being able to work in the discovery of novel therapies. This will make an impact in the quality of life and well-being of patients.
How did you spend your time outside working hours?
Running and exploring the countryside. I think Oxford is a beautiful city and since the lock down lasted for most of the internship there wasn’t much that could be done in the city centre. So, I started venturing into the outskirts of the city and exploring nature, it was mesmerising. I also increased my endurance quite a lot being able to run half a marathon so I’m quite happy about that. During the last months when the lock down was lifted, I visited some museums and historical sites and that was also very nice.
How satisfied were you with ESPA’s services and accommodation?
Quite satisfied! ESPA took care of literally everything. If we ever had any problems in the house, living with other interns, we contacted ESPA. They sorted it out so it was very efficient.
Would you recommend ESPA to your friends?
Having a professional experience abroad is a fantastic way to jump start the career of a graduate student. I can’t recommend it enough. Not only because you’ll meet amazing people but because you’ll change and overcome plenty of challenges which will empower you as an individual.
If you have ESPA taking care of everything you can just focus on your work and your life outside of it, knowing that ESPA will sort everything else for you, so yeah, why not give it a go.
What’s next for you?
Thanks to the biology internship that I did, I was offered a PhD position in cancer immunology at the University of Southampton. I just started a couple weeks ago, and I’m thrilled to be taking place in such exciting research.
Certainly. I wouldn’t have gotten this great position without the experience that I gained whilst doing my internship. I have to thank ESPA for that!
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