Luca Ferrarotto

Luca, a 2024 MSc Biotechnology and Bioengineering graduate from Kent, is currently pursuing a BBSRC-funded PhD studentship in Biochemistry and Bioengineering at the John Innes Centre, a world-leading microbiology research institution. His research bridges academia and industry, offering him a unique position to contribute to scientific advancements.

He credits his time at Kent for equipping him with the skills and guidance to embark on his PhD journey. He fondly recalls the unwavering support of his lecturers and cherishes the memories made through societies, events, and friendships.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

After graduation, I received an offer for a BBSRC PhD studentship in Biochemistry and Bioengineering in the Department of Molecular Microbiology at the John Innes Centre. I accepted the offer, and thanks to this opportunity, I’m conducting research that bridges both academia and industry within the field. As a result, I am currently a PhD student at one of the leading microbiology research institutions in the world.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

A PhD is a unique position; you are no longer a student, but you’re not quite an employee either, so I’m still adapting to this dynamic. One thing I really love about being a PhD student is that there’s no typical day. Every day is different. You usually start the day by planning the experiments you’ll be doing later, either that day or in the coming week. While your schedule can get quite full due to seminars and talks (which I really enjoy, as they offer insights into areas outside my own), you always find time for a coffee or lunch with colleagues or friends. Throughout the day, besides coffee breaks, you might need to repeat an experiment that didn’t work. Usually, the rest of the day involves reading literature for future projects or troubleshooting. There are also days dedicated to training, and others where you have meetings with your lab or supervisor.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

I’m new to the field of research and development. However, one thing I love about my career is the opportunity to learn new things every day and discuss problems, solutions, and future perspectives with world-leading scientists.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

Definitely, my time at Kent had a significant impact on what I decided to do and where I am now. Being part of this university makes me proud every day. Kent helped me develop the right skills I need to pursue a PhD. My lecturers not only supported me throughout my time there, guiding me through various modules and assignments, but they also helped me understand what I wanted to do and assisted me with my next steps. I have never felt more supported than I did at Kent. I will always carry the name of this university with pride around the world.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

For those who want to do a PhD, I would tell them to never stop trying. Use all the support you are given from your lecturers—they are there to help you, and they know best. Always ask for advice and never give up. Securing a well-funded PhD at a world-class institution is not easy, but it’s not impossible. If you've made it to the end of your Master's, I’m sure you have the right skills to succeed.

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

I got involved in several extracurricular activities. At Kent, there are many societies you can join, and I loved being part of some of them, as well as attending the events organized throughout the years. Moreover, thanks to the Student Union, events such as The Summer Ball were great opportunities to make memories and spend time with friends.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

I met my current partner at Kent while she was doing an exchange year, and I would say my favourite memory was having the chance to share that experience, the campus, and the city with her.

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

I would try to enjoy every day more, with less stress and anxiety. Those days were amazing, but too often, as students, we don’t fully enjoy the moment because of the stress and anxiety about the future.

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes, I am still in touch with my supervisor, my course tutor, and most of the friends I made there.

What are your future ambitions?

Probably, I would like to become a group leader, have my own lab, and conduct my own research. Alternatively, I would love to be the head of Research and Development at a biotech company.