Anita
MRes Biomedical Research
Beyond the lab training I’ve received in world-class facilities at Imperial, my time here has allowed me to meet the most incredible students and researchers, who have taught me how to thrive in postgraduate life.
After completing an undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences, Anita from Estonia was keen to continue her academic journey in London and found the MRes Biomedical Research course at Imperial College London. From hands‑on research projects and skill‑building seminars to the supportive Imperial community and vibrant London life, Anita shares a peek into what postgraduate study at Imperial is really like – and how it’s helping her prepare for the next stage of her research career.
Applying for a Master's at Imperial
After completing my undergraduate degree, I wanted to pursue a higher degree in neuroscience but didn’t have the academic network to join a specific project or lab. One of my friends who earned his Master’s at Imperial always spoke highly of the campus, services, community and teaching, which inspired me to explore applying myself – and I’m grateful that I did! I attended an online information session on the MRes Biomedical Research course, which was helpful in clarifying the course structure and giving me a clear sense of what to expect.
For future applicants, I’d strongly recommend attending information sessions for the courses you’re considering. You'll always learn something important you didn’t know before, and you may also meet other applicants who offer different perspectives.
About the MRes Biomedical Research course
I chose this course for its flexibility and its emphasis on learning laboratory techniques, rather than committing to a single topic for a year or more. The course consists of two six-month research projects in labs of my choosing, each incorporating an essay and an oral presentation. It also includes a month of training in grant writing, which is incredibly useful for anyone considering a career in research.
The best part of the course is the way the projects and seminars are delivered, allowing me to meet a constant stream of new and interesting people. This has been invaluable, not just for career networking but also for making friends. In just six months, I’ve become much more confident in the lab and much better at communicating my research.
Disability support at Imperial
The Disability Advisory Service staff are friendly and supportive, and they’ll work hard to provide the support you need so you can make the most of your time at Imperial.
I’d been considering seeking an autism diagnosis for the past decade, so when I learned that the Disability Advisory Service (DAS) at Imperial offers support throughout the diagnostic process and even subsidises much of the considerable cost typically involved in the UK, I reached out to get their support.
I completed a free autism screening with a DAS staff member. It was incredibly validating to speak to an expert on the subject and to hear that my lifelong struggles had recognised terms, such as “sensory overwhelm” and “masking,” and that many others share similar experiences.
The most helpful adjustments for me have related to lectures, seminars and attendance. I can request digital seminar materials such as PowerPoint slides in advance of in-person sessions, and I’m able to take occasional absences for medical appointments or health reasons. These adjustments have made my course much more accessible as I no longer need to worry about my health getting in the way of my studies.
My advice to anyone hesitant about contacting the DAS is that the staff here are friendly and supportive, and they’ll work hard to provide the support you need so you can make the most of your time at Imperial.
What are Imperial societies and communities like?
At the start of my course, I quickly made friends during the induction week activities and sessions and then met even more people at Imperial’s welcome events, such as the Welcome Fair where I discovered the wide range of societies and clubs on offer.
I have always loved yoga, but I find it hard to maintain a regular practice on my own unless I’ve signed up for classes, so I joined the Yoga Society. Imperial's yoga community has been kind and welcoming, even when I occasionally miss a session because life gets in the way. The classes are accessible to both experts and beginners, and I really appreciate that they cater to all levels.
Student life in London
There’s truly no shortage of things to do in London – there's something for everyone.
There are so many things I love about living in London. I could do something different every single day for years and still never run out of new experiences. If I’m not at a pottery painting class, I might be visiting one of the many free museum exhibitions across the city, trying a new cocktail bar, experiencing an authentic Japanese tea service, or even having dinner on a boat on the Thames. There’s truly no shortage of things to do in London – there’s something for everyone, especially if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone and try new experiences.
What's life at Imperial really like?
Connect with current students and explore the vibrant community that makes life at Imperial so unique.
My career plans
I’ve been considering doing a PhD since the final year of my undergraduate degree. So far, I’ve completed a few interviews and am currently waiting for responses. My Master’s has helped me work towards my goal of doing a PhD by giving me the opportunity to meet many researchers who have shared relevant PhD opportunities and given me valuable career insights. Also, both my personal and professional network have grown significantly since I started the course.
My main advice for future students who are looking towards the future while at Imperial is to start early with networking, making applications and job hunting. I made the mistake of missing deadlines for graduate schemes because I only began searching for opportunities in mid-October, by which point many had already closed. So, start even earlier than you think you should!
Beyond the lab training I’ve received in world-class facilities at Imperial, my time here has allowed me to meet the most incredible students and researchers, who have taught me how to thrive in postgraduate life (and beyond!).
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