Paige Hambling

I have undertaken my honours project within the MRC Protein

Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit within the University of Dundee under the supervision of Dr Paul Davies. My thesis project has focused on the regulation of calcium homeostasis at a cellular level where I am primarily investigating the potential influence gap junctions have on calcium flux within cardiomyocytes, a critical aspect in understanding both healthy and diseased heart functions. I have managed to successfully differentiate cardiomyocytes from human-induced pluripotent stem cells leading to the successful function of beating cells.

Part of my project relied on immunofluorescence through a confocal

microscope to assess protein localisation, cell morphology and

expression levels. In order to quantify calcium influx, I employed a

fluorescent plate reader to measure peak quality and frequency across

cardiomyocyte models. Additionally, to assess quantitative data, I used

complex statistical software programmes including R Studio and

GraphPad Prism to analyse and plot relevant data. This project has not

only enhanced my technical skills but has also strengthened my ability

to troubleshoot and address challenges, ensuring experimental accuracy and efficiency.

In my third year, I completed an Experimental Cell Culture module that

expanded my expertise in tissue culture and aseptic techniques. This

module greatly enhanced the skills I now rely on for my honours project,

refining my precision and proficiency in key lab practices essential for

successful experimental work.

Over the past four years, I have gained valuable experience working in

various nurseries, primary schools, and secondary schools, including

significant time spent with children who have additional needs. This has

allowed me to engage with children aged 6 months to 18 years,

developing a strong sense of empathy and understanding for their

unique challenges.

My passion for laboratory-based research, combined with this hands-on

experience, has fueled my desire to develop effective treatment options

for children with rare inflammatory diseases. I am particularly motivated

by the opportunity to collaborate with Alder Hey Children's Hospital, a

leading institution in paediatric care in my hometown. Working closely

with the hospital would not only enhance my research but also enable

me to contribute meaningfully to improving the health and well-being of

children in need.