Inspirational PGT students win Distinguished Achievement Awards 2014
20 Apr 2015
The Award was given to one PGT student from each Faculty graduating in December 2014, who had an outstanding academic performance and made a significant contribution to the University
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences: Rima Aked
Rima graduated with an MSc in Biotechnology in December 2014, after an outstanding academic performance (she averaged over 80% throughout her MSc Biotechnology course). A Syrian, living in Egypt, she managed to complete her MSc while returning to both countries during the year to assist family members.
She was a natural and inspirational representative and effective leader for her peers, organising them both academically and socially.
Beyond her academic activities, she competes in the area of Quran recitation so that she can teach children its true meaning and open their eyes to the wrongness of terrorism.
With her outstanding academic ability, optimism and infectious enthusiasm, Rima is expected to make make an enormous contribution to whatever she chooses to do in the future.
Faculty of Humanities: Said Zaneen
Said, who graduated with an MSc MIDP in IDPM in December 2014, works for a NGO in community development in the Middle East.
He proved himself to be a highly competent learner, achieving significant insights for theory and practice. He was also a gentle, resolute group leader, working within his peer group, supporting colleagues and teachers through reflection and sharing of experience.
An effective independent researcher, Said planned and implemented an independent study in his field of practice.
He also showed exceptional resilience in completing his independent dissertation study and caring for his family while under bombardment in the Gaza Strip in July and August 2014.
Faculty of Life Sciences: Brianna Lee
Brianna not only worked successfully towards her MSc degree in December 2014, but also volunteered with the Fastbleep Biology Schools Team and Science Stars, bringing science to young children, and worked as a consultant to the Oxbridge Biotech Roundtable, completing a project commissioned by a large pharmaceutical company.
She also participated in Manchester Calling, a marketing campaign focused on promoting the degree programme to offer-holders.
Brianna is now contributing to a manuscript based on her research project on which she will be first author.
Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences: Rekha Gurung
Rekha excelled academically during the MRes in Translational Medicine, and was awarded an MRes with Distinction.
During her degree, she took every opportunity to gain essential transferable skills. Through problem-based learning, delivering presentations and reviewing scientific literature, she developed communication and analytical skills.
Rekha expanded upon these skills and enhanced her quantitative and qualitative research skills during her independent research project, which explored the potential of a novel protein therapy in the treatment of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
She developed networking skills by collaborating with clinicians and researchers at St. Mary’s hospital, and by attending various seminars and conferences.
Furthermore, Rekha enhanced her communication skills, and was awarded the ‘Best Poster’ prize for her presentation of her research to colleagues and senior academics.