Histological Analysis of the Cellularity of the Lateral Ligaments of the Human Ankle

Can you introduce yourself and your summer research project?

Hi, I'm Declan! I'm in my 4th year of Biomedical Sciences, and before this degree I was a professional dancer. I'm really interested in dance medicine, and my summer research project was a really wonderful first step into that sort of field. In my project, I compared the cellularity of the three lateral ligaments of the ankle, which are commonly injured by dancers. 

How did you receive the funding for your research project?

I received the Carnegie Vacation Scholarship. I applied in February, right before the deadline. The application required me to write a rationale for the research as well as week-by-week plan for the project. 

What was the most rewarding part of your summer research?

The most rewarding part of my summer research was getting to engage with the process of problem solving in a lab setting. Previously, all my lab experience has been in course-based practical classes. For my project, because it was my own work, and I was responsible for it, inevitably things went wrong, and getting to figure out how to solve those problems really helped me grow. 

Why should students get involved in a summer research project?

One of my biggest weaknesses before my project was that I struggle to feel confident in my own decision-making skills. Over the course of my 8-week project, I really learned to overcome this. I think that's one of the reasons students should get involved in a summer research project; it teaches skills that no lectures ever could.

How has this research experience influenced your future study and career paths?

Before I started my project, I didn't know whether a lab was the right fit for me. I had such a great experience doing my project, and more specifically overcoming the challenges I encountered on the way, that I now want to continue with research in the future and hopefully do a PhD.

What advice would you give future students applying for summer research scholarships?

Talk to your lecturers! If you find their research interesting, ask them about it. If nothing else, they'll be able to point you in the direction of related opportunities so much better than you'll be able to on your own.

View Declan Moran's poster for more information: