Alasdeg Bilal talks about where is now, how he got there and his thoughts about how Science Insights helped him along the way! Alsadeg is a PhD researcher in the Institute for Regeneration and Repair, one of the host institutes for the week of Science Insights.He was recently filmed by the US news channel CNN for a feature on brain tumour research.We asked Alsadeg to reflect on where he is now, how he got there, and his thoughts about how Science Insights helped him along the way! What do you do now?I am a medical and PhD student on the MB-PhD* programme, with Cancer Research UK. In the Brennan group, I research a deadly form of brain cancer called glioblastoma. My research focuses on understanding how the immune system helps tumour cells invade into healthy brain. I work with neurosurgeons and scientists using tissue gifted to us from patients to develop living human brain and tumour tissue models.*a programme that allows medical students to do a research PhD alongside their medical training What did you study/how did you get into this role?I studied maths English, bio, chem and physics at higher, then maths bio and chem at advanced higher.I began by studying medicine at university in 2020. Then in 2022 as part of my medical degree, I completed a degree in neuroscience. Afterwards I undertook my first clinical year where I was on neurosurgery placement. From there, I decided to take time out to apply to the CRUK MB-PhD programme. I am currently in my second year of that programme.What did you gain from taking part in science insights?Science Insights allowed to gain exposure to what the world of science can look like. I got to see really cool experiments with cells, zebrafish, flies, mice and lots of cool models and techniques. I spoke about Science Insights a lot in my personal statement when applying to university and during my medical school interviews.What would you say to someone thinking about doing Science Insights?Do it! I think it’s an excellent programme for students with an interest in science. It is really incredible to have the opportunity to see first-hand world leading cutting edge research.What do you do outside of your research and studying (if you have any spare time!)?Outside of research and studying, I like to keep active. I box with my local club, I used to compete, but now I coach and train for fun. I also go out on my motorbike on the weekend to the coast and go see friends. What do you hope to do next in your career?After my studies I’d like to apply for neurosurgery training and become a neurosurgeon who does research. I’d like to continue researching various kinds of brain tumours. Watch Alsadeg's appearance on CNN in this video. This article was published on 2026-03-11
