Holly Coombes

"I have always been extremely curious about the world around me and love learning new things which fits well with the investigator part of my personality. Part of my role as a scientist is to communicate my research effectively to a variety of audiences, so being a strong communicator is very useful. "

"I am studying for a PhD in animal behaviour. My research focuses on how mammals use smell to communicate, focusing on how mammals use smell during mating, competition and to recognise individuals. I carry out behavioural experiments to investigate how animals respond to different scents. I also use molecular techniques to understand the different components of smell in mammals. Along side my own research I supervisor undergraduate students undertaking research projects as part of their degree. "

"I completed A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics. My grades from my first year of A levels were not great so I resat most of them in my second year and took a year out between school and university as a result. During this year I completed my Maths A level but also spent several months travelling around Europe which was an amazing experience. I completed a degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Bath, majoring in Biology and minoring in Physics. After completing my degree I began my PhD at the University of Liverpool. "

"Whilst I love my work I think maintaining a good work life balance is very important. I enjoy spending time with my friends, both in the pub or out in the countryside. I love going to the theatre and to music festivals. I also read a lot. I love travelling to new places and have been lucky enough to visit lots of countries for leisure but also with my work. "

"Every day is different, which I love and fits well with my personality and is part of what attracted me to my PhD. Sometimes I'll be in the lab running experiments all day, others I'll be outside doing fieldwork. Some days involve lots of computer and statistical analysis, whilst for others I'll be out at conferences or workshops. "

"A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.A degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Bath, majoring in Biology and minoring in Physics."