Trina Majumdar
Trina Majumdar
- Student type: Domestic
- Degree type: PhD
- Year commenced: 2015
- Degree(s): PhD (Engineering)
- Major(s): Applied mathematics; Astrophysics; Atmospheric science; Biochemistry; Biological and life sciences; Biomedical and behavioural sciences; Chemistry; Chemical Engineering; Computational science; Developmental biology; Earth and environmental sciences; Ecology and conservation biology; Environmental science; Financial and insurance mathematics; Genetics; Geographical science; Geology; Geosciences; Graduate Bachelor of science; Histology; Human pathology; Immunology; Materials science; Mathematical and computational sciences; Mathematical statistics; Mathematics; Microbiology; Molecular biology; Pharmacology; Physcial and chemical sciences; Physics; Physiology; Plant sciences; Psychology; Pure mathematics; Seconday education; Zoology
What made you choose the specialisation/major you studied?
I always loved biology through high school, and was able to develop that passion through my undergraduate coursework. I particularly enjoyed the microbiology and biochemistry labs. I also learnt how to solve problems and think analytically through my engineering degree, and so going into research seemed the most natural and fun option for the future!
Tell us about what your research– What is it? What does it involve?
I am a PhD candidate at Monash University in the Materials Science and Engineering Department. Coming from a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Bachelor of Engineering (Hons), I followed my interests into the field of biomaterials. I now work on optimising the additive manufacturing (3D printing) of titanium based alloys for hip replacements.
What is the most interesting thing about the field you studied?
My research involves a lot of cell culturing. I've been pleasantly surprised to learn that even these tiny cells have very distinct personalities! They love to hide in nooks and crannies and even creep under my samples. So, while it's a little tricky to find them again for imaging, I always have a laugh about how cute they are.
What advice do you have for prospective students starting uni next year?
If I had one piece of advice to give to my 16 year old self, it would be this - whatever the world tells you, it is never uncool to be enthusiastic! However lame it might seem, enthusiasm and sincerity is what will help you live a meaningful life, and be the best person you can be.
What do you hope to do after graduating?
After I finish my PhD I hope to go into the medical device industry to get a taste of commercial applications. Further into my career I would also like to return to university as a senior researcher and lecturer.