My research could have a real impact in regards to improving food security.

Image of Tanya Wilson in a house
Tanya Wilson
EPSRC PhD student
Sustainable Urban Horticulture PhD student, Biosciences
Tanya completed an undergraduate degree in Biology before joining a start-up company as a lab scientist where she was responsible for designing and running laboratory experiments and was involved in the development of their large-scale trials. Tanya's passion for future food security led her to join º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield as an EPSRC PhD student.

What made you apply for your PhD at º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield?

The reason I chose to apply for my PhD ‘Sustainable Urban Horticulture: Managing Soils for Nutritional Crops’ was due to my interest in plant physiology. While working at AEH (AEH Hydrogel Limited - a start-up company working to create a sustainable hydrogel to replace environmentally harmful mediums such as peat and rockwool) I gained an interest in Urban Horticulture, particularly it's importance in ensuring future food security. 

º£½ÇÉçÇø is a leading research university with a reputation for excellence. It is also located in the greenest city in the UK making the location appealing. Another huge draw for me when it came to studying at the º£½ÇÉçÇø of Sheffield was the supervisors that were in charge of my project.

The PhD gave me the opportunity to research topics I was passionate about while the EPSRC DTP funding allowed me the financial security to do so.

Tanya Wilson

What's it like being a postgraduate researcher? 

Being a postgraduate researcher is a busy yet enjoyable experience. I am constantly learning new things. I would say the best bit about my research is how varied it is. I get the opportunity to carry out fieldwork as well as experimental work. I also enjoy the fact that the results of my research could have a real impact in regards to improving food security.

What do you hope to do after your PhD? 

I would hope to continue in research and hopefully one day become a professor who can influence and inspire future academics.