Mia goes to Manchester

Mia Wansbrough is participating in a joint PhD program with the University of Manchester, a program in which she will spent 12 months of her candidature at her co-supervisor Dr Ahu Gumrah Parry’s lab in the UK.

I’m lucky to be part of a joint PhD program between the University of Melbourne and the University of Manchester. As part of this program, I’ll spend a total of 12 months at my host institution in Manchester. I’ve just completed my first three-month stint and will return next year to continue my work. My project sits at the intersection of biology and material sciences where we’re using beetles as inspiration for creating sustainable, highly reflective materials. In Melbourne, I focus on the biological side – studying the development of photonic structures in beetles – and in Manchester, I’m learning how to translate the unique, multilayered, designs we see in nature into real-world materials. As a biologist, there was a steep learning curve throughout my time in Manchester where I was lucky to be mentored by my supervisor Dr Ahu Gumrah Parry, and my counterpart in the program, Jianbo Xu, who patiently taught me the fundamentals of materials science. Jianbo recently arrived in Melbourne, and I have been enjoying introducing him to the fascinating world of beetles!

Outside the lab, I had so much fun getting to know Manchester and its surroundings. It took me a while to warm up to the city with its ever-changing weather and slightly chaotic charm, but once I found my rhythm I absolutely loved it! There were heaps of great restaurants, cafes and of course a pub on every corner. I was lucky to be there throughout a ‘good’ summer so experienced multiple sunny days to wander the city, hike in the Peak District, and enjoy a few pints outside with new friends. I am so excited to return next year to finish off my 12-month stint!

Post by Mia, PhD student