I was keen to gain additional computational experience during the summer, especially in the use of Unix-style environments.
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There were various questions that had to be answered via an online application process, and I had a meeting with the scheme's organisers.
I was already aware of Dr Zeng's excellent research record, and I was keen to spend time working with his group.
I was running statistical simulations using genetic modelling software developed beforehand, to test theoretical hypotheses regarding an evolutionary process called balancing selection.
My time was spent largely at the library, using the aforementioned software and trying to apply it using the university's high-performance computing facility.
It was an excellent opportunity to get to grips with some new computing tools.
Unfortunately, I was over-ambitious both in terms of scope and timing. I hadn't left myself enough rest time after a previous project, and this project overlapped with the start of application season for industrial placements on my degree, so I was forced to finish the project early. However, I still feel that I gained a lot from the experience!
The subject of Dr Zeng's research overlaps significantly with the subject of my degree, so a lot of the theoretical underpinnings were familiar to me. However, all of the tools (software, computing environment etc) were brand new to me!
Yes; I feel confident that I would like to incorporate some computational work in my future research, although I think the actual subject of my postgraduate research will be quite different.
I am currently waiting to hear back from various applications that I have/am about to send off.
Think about the timing of your holidays, since this is where I went wrong... But don't let that put you off; it is still a superb opportunity, and as long as you are careful with your planning, you should go for it!
Many thanks; it is a superb scheme and I hope that many students will continue to benefit from it in the future.
Form completed: 02 Oct 2019