Andrew Holt

Andrew graduated in 1989 with a BSc in Pharmacology. He's now an Associate Professor (senior lecturer) in Pharmacology at the University of Alberta.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

Location was close to home; my Dad had recently passed away and I wanted to remain in the area, close to my family. I also didn't want to give up my season ticket at Dundee United!

What have you done since graduation?

1989-1993: M.Phil. (1990) and Ph.D. (1993) in pharmacology from Queens' College, Cambridge.
1993-1995: Postdoctoral training in neurochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
1995-1998: Postdoctoral training in enzyme chemistry, University of Alberta.
1998-2000: Research group leader, CV Technologies Inc., Edmonton, Canada.
2000-2003: Head of Drug Discovery, ALviva Biopharmaceuticals Inc., Saskatoon, Canada.
2004: Appointed as Assistant Professor (lecturer) in pharmacology, University of Alberta.
Current position: Associate Professor (senior lecturer) in pharmacology, University of Alberta.

How has your degree helped you in the 'real world'?

I undertook graduate studies in pharmacology and have chosen a career as a pharmacologist working in academia, at one of the largest universities in Canada. I use information and strategies introduced to me during my undergraduate studies at Dundee on a daily basis.

What was the most enjoyable thing about your degree and why?

Two factors stand out for me. The Head of Department at that time was a hard taskmaster and set high standards for student performance; this helped to instil a work ethic and pride in my performance that has remained with me to this day, and which affects how I deal with undergraduate students. It also instilled a sense of pride in, and an affinity for, the department, and I still drop in to visit my former lecturers when I'm back in Dundee.

Secondly, the degree course in the late 1980s required completion of a research project over two terms. The project I chose, in enzyme pharmacology, has shaped my life, in that it led to PhD studies in the same field and, ultimately, a research career in that field. My first two publications came from that undergraduate research project, a source of great pride for me.

What was your best university experience and why?

Receiving an offer from Queens' College, Cambridge, to undertake PhD. studies based on my performance at Dundee was a thrilling day. Seeing my undergraduate research appear in a scientific journal was also a proud moment.

Playing for Dundee University AFC. during my undergraduate years and playing a small part in winning the Scottish Universities football league championship in 1987 was also an experience I will never forget.

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

The real world is a very competitive place. Your time spent at Dundee is an opportunity to give yourself a significant competitive advantage - don't waste the opportunity! How well you perform is entirely up to you, so take responsibility for your own education and be willing to put in the work necessary to achieve your goals.

Don't underestimate the power of a reference letter from a lecturer or professor; a good reference letter is the difference between securing a dream job and just making the short-list. The best references are written for the students who show initiative, a strong work ethic, and who take responsibility for learning. Make sure you're one of those students.