Name: Dario Angelone
Why did you choose Tyndall National Institute over other research institutes to complete your postgraduate studies?
I chose Tyndall because the specific PhD project I was interested in was hosted here. However, the reputation of my supervisor, Prof. Stefan Andersson-Engels, within the field of Biophotonics was also a major factor. The opportunity to work for someone so highly regarded was certainly appealing.
What have you enjoyed most about your postgraduate studies thus far?
As part of my project, I have had the opportunity to attend regular project meetings and training activities at different institutions across Europe. These activities, alongside the personal and professional connections I have made at them with other PhD students and more senior researchers, are the part I have enjoyed most. My project is focused on the development of imaging systems for surgical guidance; doing this requires working on optical and mechanical design, electronics and data analysis. Having a set of contacts with diverse backgrounds, both within Tyndall and in other institutions, is enormously helpful.
Are you participating in any unique programmes offered by Tyndall?
I am enrolled in the PhD in Engineering Science programme along with the PG Cert in Innovation, Commercialisation, and Entrepreneurship. This allows me to add valuable soft skills to my CV which will be beneficial if I choose to move to industry or even join a start up at the same time as completing my PhD.
What is your most memorable experience so far at Tyndall?
The kayaking trip to West Cork. We had an amazing evening, we stopped for dinner along the way at Connolly's of Leap which, in my humble opinion, has the best pizza in Cork. During the kayaking we saw some incredible bioluminescence whilst the tour guides shares with us the history of the area. This team-building day allowed us to bond over these special experiences with colleagues and build important connections.