Kidscan charity helps Zakia land top research post
Wednesday 5 July 2017
YOUNG scientist Zakia Zia is headed for the top after a fabulous experience at the University of Salford’s children’s cancer charity – Kidscan.
The 24 year-old from Rochdale says the placement truly introduced her to research and helped earn her a First Class Honours in Pharmaceutical Science, which she will collect at Graduation 2017 in July.
The experience has already landed her a post as a laboratory scientist at Cheshire biotech firm Cyprotex.
“I am a science enthusiast with great passion for research. But it was a big shock securing a position before I’ve even graduated. I an ecstatic but also humble and grateful,” said Zakia.
Toxicology
During her degree, Zakia worked in the Kidscan labs, where she was sponsored to work with professional scientists and learn her way around a laboratory.
Her experience in toxicology methods and practice will mean she can hit the ground running at Cyprotex which carries out pre-clinical testing of new drugs.
“It’s going to be a pretty fast-paced environment, but I’m sure I can adapt – I’m a fast learner!
Zakia has loved all aspects of science since a young age and opted for the foundation year so she could cover different aspects of the science syllabus.
Big break
“My big break was when I was offered a placement by my supervisor Dr Patricia Ragazzon at Kidscan. She has been the biggest help and a true role model in helping me explore many areas of research such as chemistry, microbiology and cell culture, in order to find a suitable treatment in curing childhood cancers.
“My placement year has truly been positive experience, I loved every second of it. I am very grateful to Allah and Patricia for the endless support and opportunities I have been given.”
Dr Ragazzon, a lecturer in biochemistry, said: “Zakia is a gold star student, she actively participates in classes so it came naturally for her to shine in her placement.
“Kidscan routinely offers several placements to Salford students who dedicate themselves to find cures for cancer in children. In Zakia’s case, we worked on the synthesis of novel compounds and we tested them for biological activity, a classic example of medicinal chemistry. She used different toxicological techniques which helped her to secure this exciting role at a world-leading research organisation.”
Related news
Energy House plays a role in the launch of UK energy efficiency campaign #missingpiece
Tuesday 8 October 2019
The University of Salford’s Energy House has been involved in the launch of a campaign driven by Smart Energy GB and the Energy Saving Trust promoting national energy efficiency initiatives.
