One my ambitions for this blog is to communicate topics linked to my PhD in accessible language. I want it to make sense to my mum, my wife’s mum and the general interested adult (although my mum did proof read my thesis 3 times so she probably already has a good idea and I am indebted to her proofreading skills!). I will publish a series of posts covering all aspects of my research – from the background of the background, to the nitty-gritty of research, to the conclusions and predictions I made in the final chapter. I have four main motivations in this:

• Firstly, I want to discuss my research in the broader context, to show that it isn’t just an obscure topic with no relevance to the world and it has its place in biology. I think it’s an interesting topic that you might enjoy reading about!
• Secondly, I want to use it as an exercise that many researchers may learn from – that the bigger picture matters and a knowledge of that will help you through struggles. I want to take what I’ve learnt as a researcher to help other researchers, and link to blogs and resources I’ve found that might help.
• Thirdly, I want to share a few thoughts I’ve had about scientific research in the UK and the world. I am not an expert on the politics, policies or inner workings but I do know what it is like working on the front line and what barriers there are to prevent researchers reaching their full potential and therefore preventing humanity from gaining fully from the benefits of discovery.
• Finally, I want to practice translating research to an understandable form and starting with a topic I know inside out.

I hope you get something from the pieces I write, and I look forward to your input and comments, ADB.