Name: Srinidhi Koya
Where you are from: Bangalore, India
PhD University: Teesside University
PhD topic area: Public Health
Current job title and company: Research Fellow at the Institute of Public Health and Wellbeing, University of Essex
Current location: Colchester, UK
How would you describe to your granny/granddad what you do for work?
This question is always a tough one! I’m trying to improve the existing health system in the local areas.
What does a typical day/week look like for you?
Liaising and interviewing stakeholders, developing research tools, lots of reading papers and updating my literature review.
What’s the best thing about your job?
A manager encouraging my growth and independence and a lovely team. I also love the flexibility with my work schedule and work location.
What hard skills does someone need for your job?
Expertise in public health, project management, conceptualising and developing research projects and, research writing.
What soft skills does someone need for your job?
Interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, problem solving and adaptability.
In 10 years' time, what job/position do you see yourself in?
Managing a public health programme/ division at a local council. Simultaneously, I plan to develop my skillset and experience to foray into public health policymaking.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your industry?
Have a long-term goal and work towards achieving it. Networking really helps and is very important in an area like public health. It’s good to have short term goals to stay motivated for the future.
What advice would you give to someone coming to the end of their PhD?
If you find your motivation levels dipping, be rest assured that it is completely normal. Take a small break and reflect on all the hardships you successfully faced to reach this point. A bit more of a nudge and you will see the light at the end of the tunnel!!
How can people reach out to you?
University Profile