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Graduate Q&A: Thomas Logan (BSc Zoology)

Zoology graduate Thomas Logan's biological studies lifted him to new heights.

The lecturer in animal sciences on the joy of imparting knowledge to new students, studying in Hull and the importance of taking your opportunities.

Thomas graduated in 2017 with a BSc (Hons) in Zoology. He then went on to complete an MSc by Research in Biological Sciences, also at Hull, and has had peer-reviewed research published in academic journals. He is now teaching the next generation of zoologists at an environmental college in London.

Thomas Logan, Zoology graduate

What did you do after university?

After my BSc I returned to the University as a Masters researcher under the tutelage of Dr Alastair Ward (former Head of the Biological and Marine Sciences Department at Hull). Within six weeks of my MSc graduation I was offered a job as HE course manager and lecturer in animal sciences at Capel Manor College (an environmental college in London). I also became an Associate Lecturer at the Royal Agricultural University.

What is your typical working day?

As a course manager, I monitor the daily administration of the second-year students of the degree programme – this includes attendance, setting targets, tutorials and meetings with other staff. As a lecturer, I am the module lead for the 2nd year research projects and lecture on several modules. When I am not teaching, I write lectures and spend time marking work. I am also the supervisor to research projects, including research on Tigers, Lemurs, Guppies and Meerkats.

What do you like most about your job?

I enjoy the challenge of imparting knowledge to new students and attempting to update the methods of teaching to improve student satisfaction. I try to introduce real life examples that both students and I can relate to, making the theory of what I teach more relevant applicable.

What’s been the highlight in your career to date?

Seeing my first two peer-reviewed papers being published in different journals was probably the proudest moments of my career.

Thomas Logan, Zoology graduate

What is your ambition?

I fully intend to return to education to do my PhD. My intention is to teach and research in a mainstream university. Combining my current role with advanced education would enable that to become a reality.

How did your time at Hull set you up for success?

My masters research has opened many doors for my career. This would not have happened without the support of the lecturers at the university. I do not think I would be the person I am today, doing what I do, had I not been a student of the University of Hull.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get into the same line of work?

Set clear targets, be tenacious, be ambitious, be disciplined, and utilise all opportunities that come your way.

What would you say to anyone thinking of studying Biological Sciences at Hull?

Hull made me the person I am today. The department is dedicated, the quality is top-notch, the staff are helpful and supportive and the city embraces students. The University and the city combined will change you for the better. The city is great, the University is great, I dare you to be part of it.

Try BSc Zoology for yourself

Want to understand animals better? And learn how to better protect them? You're in the right place. Explore all aspects of animal life, from a subcellular level to entire ecosystems. Then focus on a species that fascinates you, and a specialist area that could become your career.

Find out more about this course
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