Profile
Alana Mullins
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About Me:
Hi there! 👋 I’m a PhD student living in a charming village near Durham with my partner. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Newcastle city centre where I work. By day, I’m diving deep into scientific research, and by evening, you’ll find me tackling fitness and race challenges! 🏃♀️🏋️♀️
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Read more
Half Marathon PB
10K PB
First Hyrox Competition
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My pronouns are:
She/her
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My Work:
I study mitochondria, famously known as the powerhouses of the cell because they generate energy! ⚡ My research focuses on how these tiny structures change during type two diabetes. By understanding how they malfunction, we hope to discover new treatments for diabetes. To achieve this, I use various tools, including AI and mouse models. 🧬🔬
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My Typical Day:
My day kicks off at 7 am with a much-needed coffee! ☕ I arrive at work around 7:45/8 am and check on my cell cultures. I follow a weekly checklist to stay organized. My days can vary a lot—some are lab-heavy, while others are filled with meetings. I set up experiments as early as possible, aiming to leave by 4 pm. After work, it’s time for the gym or a run! 🏋️♀️🏃♀️
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What I'd do with the prize money:
With the prize money, I would create an interactive online lesson called “Escape the Classroom.” Students would solve codes and puzzles led by a scientist, either in person or via Zoom, to escape the classroom! 🧩🔍
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Education:
I attended St Mary Redcliffe, a state school in central Bristol, and its feeder sixth form for my A-levels. I was lucky to have amazing teachers who encouraged my passion for science and helped me secure a spot on a Japan-based science trip, where I worked on a project with Japanese students for three weeks. 🌏🧪
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Qualifications:
– 11 GCSEs, including Maths, English, and Double Science.
– A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths, and English Language.
– A degree in Medical Sciences from Exeter University. 🎓
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Work History:
I’ve always had part-time jobs to fund my studies. Since I was 16, I worked as a receptionist, continuing this role through university. It was manageable and helped support my education. 💼
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Current Job:
PhD Student at Newcastle University. 🎓🔬
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Employer:
Newcastle University. 🏫
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Ambitious, chatty, and passionate. 💬❤️
What did you want to be after you left school?
A scientist.
Were you ever in trouble at school?
Sometimes for chatting, but I always managed to avoid serious trouble! 😅
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
Astrobiology—exploring life beyond Earth! 🌌👽
Who is your favourite singer or band?
At the moment, I love Billie Eilish.
What's your favourite food?
CAKE – any kind! 🍰🎂
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
1. To be successful. 2. To share my scientific knowledge. 3. To make a difference in the biomedical field. 🌟🔬
Tell us a joke.
Why can't you trust an atom? .... Because they make everything up!
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