Dr Indira Basu has extensive international post-doctoral research experience in the field of Molecular Microbiology. This vast study combined with her laboratory experience offered Dr Basu a variation to the pathway by examination to a Faculty of Science Fellowship, and as such she was only required to study for Part II oral examinations.
Working in LabPLUS, the main reference laboratory on the North Island of New Zealand, Dr Basu undertook the FSc Fellowship as a way to bring about professional recognition to her work and increase her career opportunities as a clinical scientist: “The Fellowship of the Faculty of Science is a prestigious qualification and the RCPA is a leader in this field of training.”
Dr Basu explains that while she did need to put in significant study time, with the support of her family, supervisor and colleagues she flourished. Furthermore, the study gave her exposure to areas of laboratory science she may not have otherwise had: “I thrived on the challenge as it made me work harder. I ended up studying material, such as bio-statics, that I probably would not have done in my day-to-day work. It stretched the breadth and depth of my knowledge and I feel that I learned a lot as a result.”
With this increased knowledge, a renewed sense of purpose and confidence in her ability to take on new challenges, Dr Basu says that the insights gained have also been extremely useful and applicable in her own work. She also believes scientists considering the FSc Fellowship should go for it: “I would definitely encourage others to undertake the journey. It involves dedication and a lot of hard work but in the end, it is highly satisfying.”
Congratulations on your achievement Dr Basu!