Isobel - BSc Equine Science
PhD student in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Royal Veterinary College and AstraZeneca
"By researching arthritis for my PhD I hope to aid understanding of a painful and debilitating disease that is the primary cause of approximately 40% of lameness in horses. I use various laboratory techniques to examine gene and protein expression in cells and tissue isolated from horse cartilage. I really enjoyed the equine science degree. I went thinking I wanted to work with horses but unsure of exactly what I wanted to do. Modules, such as, cell biology, immunology and equine performance physiology plus equine nutrition and reproduction led me to decide that I wanted a career in research.
The equine science degree was the necessary qualification to obtain a place on the MSc Physiology at Liverpool and also to start my PhD. I also acquired many transferable skills i.e. presenting information, performing literature searches, academic writing, statistics and IT knowledge all of which I need in my current position."
Melanie - BSc Equine Science
Editorial Assistant, Horse & Rider Magazine
"I currently work as an Editorial Assistant for Horse & Rider magazine. I write the news pages for the magazine, and also the ‘Wellbeing’ features, which focus on horse health, care and management. This gives me the opportunity to put into practise a lot of what I learnt at Aber – especially working to deadlines! I also get the opportunity to take part in photoshoots for the magazine, and go to competitions and events like Olympia and Badminton.
I found the BSc Equine Science course really enjoyable; it offered a good balance between scientific theory and practical knowledge, not just related to horses, but other animals and humans, too. The support from the faculty was great, they really helped me to get the most out of my studies. I also acquired many transferable skills i.e. presenting information, performing literature searches, academic writing, statistics and IT knowledge all of which I need in my current position. I have no regrets about choosing to study at Aber – it combines great tuition, support and facilities with a fantastic night-life. It’s a small, friendly place with stunning scenery – as a place to study, I’d recommend it to everyone."