Kyle
PhD Clinical Medical Research
One of the best things about Imperial is the community: you're surrounded by like-minded people, all working together to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the world today.
When Kyle joined the very first cohort of Imperial College London’s BSc Medical Biosciences course back in 2017, he had no idea just how far his journey at Imperial would take him. Fast forward a few years and he’s now doing a PhD in cancer biology – still at Imperial – driven by a passion for research, a love of collaborative science and a desire to make a real difference in the world of healthcare. Kyle shares what it’s like to apply for a PhD at Imperial, how he got support for dyslexia and his advice for future Imperial students.
Kyle at his undergraduate Bachelor's graduation at the Royal Albert Hall
...and one year later at his Master's graduation
My journey at Imperial
My time at Imperial began in 2017 when I joined the inaugural cohort of the BSc Medical Biosciences course. This interdisciplinary programme introduced me to the science behind human health and its applications across research, policy and industry. Through its lab-focused and research-intensive approach, I discovered a real passion for cancer biology.
This led me to pursue an MRes Cancer Biology, for which I was lucky enough to receive the Faculty of Medicine Dean’s Master’s Scholarship , providing me with £10,000 towards the cost of my Master’s course.
Currently, I’m continuing my academic journey at Imperial by doing a PhD also focused on cancer biology.
Applying for a PhD at Imperial
While completing my Master’s at Imperial, I applied for several PhD studentships across institutions in London. When I came across the MRC-funded Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) – now known as the MultiSci MRC DTP – I was really excited by the opportunities it offered. What stood out was its unique structure – unlike many studentships, there was no predefined project. Instead, successful applicants are given the chance to speak with supervisors across the university and co-design a project that aligns with your interests and passions.
What stood out at Imperial was the studentships' unique structure – you're given the chance to speak with supervisors across the university and co-design a project that aligns with your interests and passions.
The application process involved submitting a standard form and my CV, followed by a panel interview. As part of the interview, I had to present and summarise a complex scientific paper in just five minutes. It was definitely a challenge, but the panel was incredibly supportive and made the experience feel encouraging rather than intimidating.
After being accepted onto the programme, I worked with my supervisor, Professor Charlotte Bevan, to develop an interdisciplinary project focused on targeted drug delivery in prostate cancer. My biggest piece of advice for anyone choosing a supervisor is to speak with current students and postdocs in the lab, as they’ll give you an honest and valuable perspective on what it’s like to work there.
The MultiSci MRC Doctoral Training Partnership scheme
My PhD is jointly based in the Faculties of Medicine and Natural Sciences – specifically in Surgery and Cancer and the Department of Chemistry – and focuses on using nanoparticles (extremely small particles) to deliver drugs directly to tumours. The goal is to make cancer treatments gentler on patients by targeting the medicine to the tumour itself, reducing the harmful side effects often associated with conventional therapies.
Being part of the MultiSci scheme has also opened up many opportunities beyond the lab. In 2024, I completed a three-month internship at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), collaborating with one of our partners on a project that aimed to activate the immune system against prostate cancer. This experience really highlighted the world-class research environment at Imperial and the strength of its collaborative culture.
I’ve also had the chance to teach undergraduate students and get involved in outreach work, visiting local schools to help inspire the next generation of scientists.
Along the way, I’ve been lucky enough to present my research at several international conferences, including in Malta and Rotterdam. I even had the chance to co-organise an early-career researcher conference for the British Association of Cancer Research.
Kyle during his internship in San Francisco
Kyle during his internship in San Francisco
Support from the Disability Advisory Service
Before coming to Imperial, I often struggled with reading and writing, but I developed my own strategies to manage during my A-levels. During my undergraduate Welcome Week at Imperial, I was signposted to the Disability Advisory Service (DAS), who offered me a formal assessment for dyslexia. The DAS were fantastic in guiding me through available tools and suggesting helpful technologies and software that could support my work, particularly during my PhD. Following my diagnosis, the DAS was incredibly supportive, working directly with my department to put reasonable adjustments in place to support me throughout my studies.
The DAS were fantastic in guiding me through available tools and suggesting helpful technologies and software that could support my PhD work.
Initially, I was nervous about disclosing my disability to teaching staff and supervisors, worried they might see it as a limitation, but their response was nothing but supportive and it hasn’t affected my PhD in any negative way.
Student life at Imperial
Growing up in a rural area in Wales and being the first in my immediate family to attend university, it’s become a personal mission of mine to inspire the next generation of STEM innovators.
Imperial also has hundreds of clubs and societies to get involved with – there’s truly something for everyone. During my undergraduate and Master’s studies, I was a member of the Imperial College School of Medicine Boat Club. I had never rowed before coming to Imperial, but the club was incredibly welcoming. Beyond rowing, I made lifelong friends who I’m still close with today.
In addition to my research, I’m the co-founder of STEMaccess, where we provide mentoring and tutoring in all things STEM. Growing up in a rural area in Wales and being the first in my immediate family to attend university, it’s become a personal mission of mine to inspire the next generation of STEM innovators.
Imperial has opened doors I never imagined possible when I left school, and I’m passionate about paying it forward by helping others build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in STEM.
Living in London
As a student, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore one of the most exciting cities in the world while studying at one of its top universities. There’s no shortage of things to do, from concerts and gigs to sporting events and theatre. London also offers amazing opportunities for part-time work and collaboration with other universities and institutions across the city.
Since my second year as an undergraduate, I’ve rented privately and have really enjoyed living with other Imperial students I met during my studies. I’m currently based in Hammersmith, which is perfect for meeting friends for drinks by the river and great for running too!
Kyle at a black tie dinner at the House of Lords in London
Kyle at a black tie dinner at the House of Lords in London
Kyle running the London Marathon 2024
Kyle running the London Marathon 2024
My future career plans
After completing my PhD, I’m hoping to stay in academia and pursue a postdoctoral position in the US, an ambition largely shaped by my fantastic internship abroad.
The best piece of advice I’d give to future students is to definitely try to undertake an internship or placement during your studies. Whether it’s in academia, industry, law or the civil service, it can offer invaluable insight into what a permanent role in that field might actually involve.
I’d also highly recommend making full use of Imperial’s Careers Service. They offer a wide range of support, from CV reviews and interview prep to networking opportunities, which can really help you feel more confident as you take the next step in your career.
Careers support from day one
Our Careers Service can help you translate your Imperial degree into a purposeful and rewarding future.
I honestly can’t recommend studying at Imperial enough – it has opened doors I never imagined possible.
For anyone applying to Imperial, my top advice would be to highlight why you're passionate about science and how you can contribute to Imperial’s unique ethos and collaborative culture. Showcase what drives you and how you’ll make the most of the incredible opportunities the university has to offer.
One of the best things about being at Imperial is the community. It’s amazing to be surrounded by like-minded people, all working together to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the world today.
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