Flexible Working whilst studying for a PhD

Gustavo welcome to the team, how have you found your first couple of months here?

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Thank you, I have found the last couple of months great, refreshing almost. Firstly, the team here at JointMedica are wonderful; they are welcoming, friendly and productive. The environment change, coming from an institution such as a university into industry has been enjoyable. Industry is where I do best work, so I am ecstatic.

JointMedica have been able to offer you flexible working, to allow you to continue your PhD studies. How have you found this beneficial?

It has been a great experience for me, as I enjoy my PhD work. It has been on my bucket list for a very long time, and I firmly believe finishing it will benefit both myself and the company. JointMedica have a highly skilled team and having a PhD team member can only be beneficial. Despite having flexible working hours, I work hard in my spare time to keep ahead of my studies.

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Have you found any overlap with your PhD studies and the work you do here for JointMedica?

Yes, absolutely. I can think of a few examples where I can transfer skills and knowledge from my PhD work (related to either mechanical testing, SEM work or biological testing) to my work here at JM. In my PhD work, I read a lot of material that can cross-reference with my work at JM, which is fantastic. As a doctoral student, I've gained a great deal of knowledge about the medical field, which I exploit to the fullest extent possible.

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Do you have any advice for anyone who is looking at undertaking a PhD whilst also having a full-time job?

As a single piece of advice, I would recommend working in an industry related to your field of study and being passionate about what you do, and not being afraid to fail because you will always have people who will help you get back up. Don't be afraid to do your best in everything you do and share your knowledge with others to allow them to grow and develop as well.

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Once you’ve been awarded your PhD, do you have any further goals you’d like to reach?

Certainly, I have aspirations and a few goals in life, but I prefer to take things one step at a time, so I'll leave that for later.