Developing kidney organoids by prolonging the lifespan of arteries and veins in embryonic kidneys.

Tell us about your research

My research project contributed to the development of kidney organoids by prolonging the lifespan of arteries and veins in embryonic kidneys. I did this by incubating embryonic mouse kidneys with a drug that simulated blood flow through the vessels.

What were the challenges and highlights?

I did this project in between the second and third year of my degree, so I was quite nervous that I didn’t have much lab experience. I had to learn on the job how to perform microdissection, antibody staining, and fluorescence microscopy. This was extremely exciting and I enjoyed working on my own research project and gaining independence and confidence. I felt like I was contributing to an important area of medical research.

How has it impacted your career plans?

Doing a research internship so early in my degree has given me confidence in my honours-level practical work and has given me direction for my future career. It has made me realise that I want to work in clinical trials research that would further allow me to contribute to causes I see as important, such as the development of life-saving drugs and vaccines.

View Hannah's poster for more information