Alumni Spotlight: From studying Biochemistry to MHRA Associate Signal Assessor

My time studying Biochemistry at Queen Mary University of London was an incredibly valuable experience that helped shape both my scientific interests and my career aspirations. Throughout my MSci degree, I developed a strong understanding of biochemical processes while gaining practical experience applying this knowledge through laboratory research, independent projects, presentations and collaborative work.

One aspect I valued most about the course was the opportunity to engage with biochemical research and develop skills extending beyond learning scientific concepts. Throughout my degree, I had opportunities to explore different areas of research, which helped me understand how fundamental scientific discoveries contribute to wider applications in healthcare and industry.

A particularly valuable experience was my summer internship at the Institute of Cancer Research, where I worked in the Jon Pines Laboratory on a project investigating CRISPR-Cas9-mediated p53 knockout in RPE-1 cells. This introduced me to a professional research environment and allowed me to develop my confidence working as part of a scientific team. I gained experience in experimental design, data interpretation and troubleshooting, and I was fortunate to be recognised as a contributing author on a publication in the EMBO Journal.

During my Master's year, I completed an independent research project focused on developing a recombinant T2A expression system to investigate PHOSTACs (Phosphorylation Targeting Chimeras) and their ability to promote MEK1 dephosphorylation. This project allowed me to further develop my laboratory and analytical skills through techniques including PCR, Gibson assembly, mammalian cell transfection, SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. However, some of the most valuable skills I gained were not only technical but also transferable—learning how to troubleshoot unexpected results, critically evaluate evidence, manage a long-term research project and communicate complex scientific findings clearly.

Alongside my academic studies, I was actively involved in the wider university community through roles including Senior Student Ambassador, Student Council Chair and Student Trustee and Director of the Students' Union. These opportunities played a significant role in my personal and professional development.

They helped me build confidence, develop leadership and communication skills, and gain experience working with different groups of people to represent student perspectives and contribute to decision-making. My experiences outside the laboratory also helped me appreciate the broader impact of science within healthcare. Through previous roles in healthcare settings, including working within GP and hospital environments, I gained insight into how healthcare services operate and the importance of accurate information, effective communication and supporting patient care.

Since graduating with a First Class MSci in Biochemistry, I have joined the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) as an Associate Signal Assessor within the Safety and Surveillance Division. My role involves reviewing and assessing safety information relating to medicines and medical devices to support regulatory decision-making and protect public health.

Although my current role is not laboratory-based, the skills I developed during my degree continue to support my work every day. My scientific background allows me to understand and critically evaluate complex information, assess evidence and approach problems analytically. The attention to detail, organisation, communication and problem-solving skills developed through research projects and extracurricular experiences have been invaluable as I have transitioned into a professional scientific role.

Looking back, my time at Queen Mary provided me with much more than a degree. The combination of research opportunities, practical experience, leadership roles and support from staff helped me develop the confidence and skills needed to begin my career. My biggest piece of advice to current and prospective students would be to make the most of every opportunity available to you, even if it feels outside your comfort zone or isn't directly related to your coursework. Some of the experiences that had the greatest impact on my career came from saying yes to opportunities beyond the classroom, whether that was undertaking research, completing a summer internship, taking on leadership roles within the Students' Union or gaining experience in healthcare settings. These experiences helped me develop confidence, resilience and transferable skills that have been just as valuable as the scientific knowledge I gained during my degree. 

I would also encourage students to keep an open mind about where a Biochemistry degree can take them. When I started university, I didn't know that I would end up working in medicines regulation at the MHRA. Exploring different opportunities throughout your time at university can help you discover interests and career paths you may not have considered initially, while giving you the skills and experiences that employers value.

Azzah Abubacar - MSci Biochemistry Alumni 
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