Deniz Akin

How have you found your time studying at Swansea University?

Looking back on my first year as a PhD student at Swansea University, what I thought would be one of the toughest challenges of my academic career has actually turned out to be one of the most enjoyable experiences.

What did you like most about your time at Swansea University?

One of the things I love most about Swansea is the campus location. Singleton Campus is just a five-minute walk from the beach, and not many universities can offer that. After long hours in the lab, that walk by the sea is the perfect way to clear my head and recharge.

What have you enjoyed most about your course?

In the lab, I’ve been able to learn and master a lot of new techniques, thanks to the help of postdocs and the fantastic staff. I’ve never had to change my research plan because there’s always someone around with the expertise I need. The community here is incredibly supportive—especially my supervisor, who is always approachable and ready to help with any research questions or challenges I face.

 The university also hosts loads of seminars and internal conferences, which I love attending. It’s a great way to learn about all the interesting research going on here, and it gives me the chance to share my own work, too. The atmosphere is inclusive, and Swansea University puts a lot of focus on helping research students not only develop their lab skills but also build important soft skills like public speaking and networking.

Would you recommend Swansea University to others?

Choosing to do my PhD at Swansea University was easily one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career. It’s not just about being part of one of the UK’s top medical schools — it’s the supportive environment, cutting-edge facilities, and the amazing people who are helping me grow as a scientist.