Alumni stories
A list of our alumni stories
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Alumni response to Covid-19
Stories of our alumni going above and beyond during the Covid-19 pandemic
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Graduate artist uses seized illegal firearms to fight for peace
DJCAD graduate and social activist, Frank To, will be putting A Good Humanium Metal Pen to paper to create artwork to support the recovery of war-torn communities
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Dundee Botanic Garden spreads fairy dust this Christmas
Local families are invited on a magical winter journey when a fairy door trail at the University of Dundee Botanic Garden launches this week.
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Major Selasie Atuwo - dual qualifying LLM graduate from Ghana
Selasie Atuwo, from Ghana, graduated from the University of Dundee in 2011 with an LLM International Commercial Law
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British Science Week 5-14 March
Run by the British Science Association, British Science Week is a celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths
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A bridge to the past – an engineering graduate story
As part of his Civil Engineering degree, Kevin built a bridge in the beautiful Highlands landscape which he has revisited to discover it still in use today
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Detroit design honour a driving force for Dundee graduates
A team of University of Dundee graduates are on the road to success after being honoured in a design competition to transform “Motor City”.
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Out of this world! Graduate Harris is the World’s Youngest Satellite Engineer
From a young age, Harris Angeli spent his time designing and creating mechanical parts for his projects. With a fascination with Space, it was no secret that he wanted to broaden his horizons beyond this planet.
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Once Upon A Time in DJCAD - Zoe Sadler's alumni story
From Illustration student to author and quirky jigsaw puzzle creator, alumna Zoe Sadler has used her love of books and fairy tales to release her inner magic.
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A leap of faith - Ding Wang's alumni story
From Shanghai, to Dundee, down into England, and now to India and Singapore, Alumna Ding Wang’s time at the University has led to a superb international journey.
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The World’s First Forensic Jeweller
Find out from alumna Dr Maria Maclennan how her lifelong passion allowed her to explore crime, death and disaster through the investigative lens of jewellery.
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Lights, Camera, Art School - Rose Hendry's journey from DJCAD to Director
From DJCAD to dynamic director, alumna Rose Hendry is a successful and fastidious filmmaker who aims to hone in on details which tell a bigger story.
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Dundee comic book artists illustrate diverse range of creative careers
Two University of Dundee graduates are challenging stereotypes surrounding careers in creative industries in their newest comic venture
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Drawing from experience
One of the great joys of studying at university is the incredible people that you meet.
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Get to know… Dan Sayer
Dan Sayer, Sports Union President for 2020-21 and recent Urban Planning graduate shares with us his experience as President and the impact of sports on his University journey.
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The Central Scotland School of Craft - a community engagement project with DJCAD roots
Have you ever wanted some hands-on crafts training without the need to attend a full-time education institution? Alumna Rebecca Wilson has got you covered!
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Celebrating Our Alumni
Last month the University of Dundee hosted The Bridge Alumni Awards, an event which recognised the many ways that our alumni give back to the university community.
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Dundee gave me the foundation to become a Manager of Intergovernmental Strategy
Sheryl’s career has seen her use her degree in a variety of ways since graduating, including in roles at an economic development agency and a water utility.
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Jacqueline Wang – How Dundee got me to where I am now
Jacqueline, MArch Architecture alumna who graduated in 2018, reflects on her time at Dundee and how it helped to get her to where she is now.
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Dr Fiona MacHugh’s Dundee journey
Find out why Fiona recommends Dundee, and not just for what you can gain academically
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Rick’s Master of Education story
From international education to designing learning experiences in the hospitality and tourism industry, Rick tells us how the MEd influenced his career.
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Giving back to track
Eilish McColgan had her university life interrupted by the small matter of the 2012 Olympics, leading to a decade as a top-level distance runner. Now she is looking to enable the next generation of athletes to reach their full potential.
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Dundee alumnus, Dr Barry Klaassen awarded with MBE for his life-saving services to overseas healthcare
Dr Barry Klaassen’s work to save thousands of lives received recognition in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
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Dundee Law alumni mentor the next generation of legal experts
Law students at the University of Dundee are set to benefit from invaluable insights into the legal profession as successful alumni offer their counsel in a new mentoring scheme
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From studying EU law to negotiating new EU legislation
Securing a PhD was not Bérénice Lemoine’s original plan, but time spent studying for an LLM at the University of Dundee changed the course of her life
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Duncan of Jordanstone alumni to feature in 5th anniversary celebration of Scotland’s Design Museum
The Tartan exhibition features exhibits from alumni and Vivien Westwood.
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Double fracture fails to prevent Lucy’s big break
A postgraduate researcher from the University of Dundee has battled through the agony of a severe double arm break, and the resulting challenges it caused her work, to win an award celebrating the art of medal making.
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Can food be the ultimate drug?
While taking a holiday from her busy role at Spectrum Geo Ltd in London, Tamara Egbedi visited Nigeria, not realising how she was going to change millions of people’s lives across Africa.
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My friends thought I was crazy
She may be the golden girl of British athletics, but Eilish McColgan has a secret.
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Giving back to support the future of others
Scholarships and bursaries are a lifeline for many students who struggle financially during their academic careers. Thanks to the generosity of alumni like David Peattie, students at the University can access these life-changing opportunities.
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Changing lives through art
Art can be a real source of therapy for people at any age and stage of life. For 37-year-old Euan Rutter, art helped transform his life and he’s now using it to transform the lives of others.
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A touch of tartan
From Dundee to New York, tartan is a hot topic of conversation for the University and V&A Dundee this year with a celebration of the Scottish fabric at home and abroad.
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Finding the good in grief
There may be few certainties in life, but one unavoidable experience that we will all deal with is death.
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Doubling donations, securing success
As a Robertson Scholar, young Scots can access world-class learning experiences at the University of Dundee with a programme of support based on ability rather than financial capacity.
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From Dundee to Strasbourg
English Law LLB alumnus Judge Tim Eicke KC, the UK Judge at the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), returned to the University in February to give a lecture on Crises in Europe: a view from the Strasbourg Court.
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A sustainable jewellery business that sparkles
Tara Mansell graduated from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD) in 2020 with a degree in Jewellery & Metal Design amidst the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic.
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Lab-designed love
A 'smelly old chemistry lab' might seem an unpromising location for romance, but it was in such a place that Professor Sir Philip Cohen met his future wife, Tricia. The couple would go on to develop what was an underappreciated field of research.
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A trip down memory lane for Anatomy and Human Identification
The University’s Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification has a long and rich history, dating back to 1889. Join us as we look back on how teaching Anatomy has changed over the years.
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UK Judge at Strasbourg Court says Dundee 'undoubtedly' set him up for career
Even within the legal profession, to be elected to sit as judge at the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) is ‘beyond a dream’, says Tim Eicke.
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University performs Scottish-first procedure to treat Parkinson’s tremors
A life-changing procedure that can prevent uncontrolled tremors in Parkinson’s patients has been performed for the first time in Scotland.
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My journey after Chevening at the University of Dundee
Lina Tjindra shares her experience completing a postgraduate degree at the University of Dundee and her accomplishments since then.
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Trustees see the impact of their generosity
Imagine being able to write again, to hold a cup without spilling, or simply to hug a loved one with tremors.
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Discovering Chengdu: A Journey of Culture, Connection, and Growth
Yen Lin Tong, 4th year Applied Finance in Practice(BSc) student, tells about her experience at the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE) in Chengdu
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Alumni spotlight: Aamna Athwal on balancing motherhood with orthopaedic surgery studies in Dundee
Orthopaedics is a field where, traditionally, female representation is rare, especially in the Indian subcontinent
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Transforming Finance in Uzbekistan
As proud alumni of the MSc in Islamic Finance we have experienced firsthand how transformative this program has been for us
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From Slopes to Stocks: Balancing Skiing with an International Finance Degree
Adam Hall balances his passion for skiing with studying International Finance. As he prepares for the 2026 Paralympics, he also plans for a future in investment and wealth management
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Why the MSc in International Banking, Finance, Risk, and Regulation was the perfect fit for me
With over two decades of experience in teaching and banking, I sought a programme that would elevate my expertise and career prospects.
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My Journey in MSc Accounting and Finance at the University of Dundee
Rakul talks about discovering the perfect blend of academic excellence and real-world exposure
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Celebrating our alumni as University of Dundee graduates shine at the Study UK Alumni Awards
The University of Dundee takes immense pride in the achievements of its alumni, particularly those who have made a significant contribution to their fields of expertise or community.
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From Mumbai to Dundee University, School of Business
Avani recently completed her MSc in International Banking, Finance, and Investment Management with distinction at the School of Business
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Navigating my academic journey with the University of Dundee
Saptak shares his journey at the University of Dundee, pursuing an MSc in Finance. Discover how academic excellence and real-world experience are shaping his future in finance
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Building my future in finance at the University of Dundee
Vishwa, an MSc Finance student from India, shares how Dundee’s blend of theory, practical learning, and industry connections is shaping her future in finance
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From Student to Analyst: my journey from MSc to NatWest
Anandu shares his journey from international student to Business Analyst at NatWest, offering valuable insight into career planning, perseverance, and professional growth
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From Sri Lanka to Scotland: A Journey with Professional Accountancy
Nilmini shares her journey from Sri Lanka to completing a distinction-level MSc in Professional Accountancy at the School of Business
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From numbers in India to launchpads in the UK: my Dundee accounting story
From part-qualified accountant in India to finance professional in the UK, Anju’s journey shows where ambition and an MSc from Dundee can lead
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From India to the UK: My transformational journey into Finance
Pavithra Sundaravaradan shares her journey from India to Scotland, pursuing a Master’s in Professional Accountancy
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My Professional Accountancy MSc experience at the School of Business
Mohammed, a qualified Cost and Management Accountant from India, pursued his MSc in Professional Accountancy in 2023
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My University journey: Reflections and highlights
From Class Representative to community volunteer, Rakul’s journey at the University of Dundee showcases how student life can be both impactful and inspiring
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Crossing oceans, chasing dreams: a journey of growth, love, and new beginnings
Jayakrishnan and Anjana share their inspiring journey from high school sweethearts in India to building successful careers in the UK after studying at the University of Dundee
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A year of alumni group events
Our alumni groups are at the heart of our vibrant alumni community worldwide - here's what they've been up to over the past year
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I had a dream – and it came true
Lan’s journey through the International College Dundee and the School of Business is a testament to what’s possible when ambition meets opportunity and support
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Why choosing School of Business changed my life
Sidharthan reflects on his journey from uncertainty to a career at EY, tracing how the University of Dundee shaped his academic and professional growth
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Alumnus Topu tells us his journey of discovery in Dundee, which began at International College Dundee
Read about Fayzuddin Topu's academic journey starting at International College Dundee
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Dundee beginnings to global advocacy
Sara Turnbull pursued an online MEd at the University of Dundee to honour her parents' legacy, which led to a leadership role in Budapest. She’s now pursuing a PhD focused on educational inequalities and advocating for equal access to education
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Navigating growth and purpose: my professional journey
Toufiq, a UK Civil Service professional, draws on global experience in engineering, business, and leadership. A School of Business graduate, he ranked first in his class and continues to shape impact-driven careers
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“It’s ok if your career is wiggly. Mine certainly was but I’m thankful and proud of it.”
Jamie’s career hasn’t followed a straight path, but it’s those twists and turns that have shaped both him and his work. Today, he shares his journey to inspire students and graduates forging their own way
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Mumbai to Edinburgh: charting a finance career with Standard Life
From Thane to Edinburgh, Omkar transformed from a Chartered Accountant into a finance professional at Phoenix Group
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Father’s footsteps, cosy city and COVID-19
Kolkata student, Sreshtha’s leap from family inspiration to global opportunity, finding belonging and purpose in Dundee during a time of change
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The Bridge Alumni Awards 2025
Celebrate your global alumni community as we relaunch The Bridge Alumni Awards
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From Dhaka to London through Dundee in less than 18 months
Sakib chose the University of Dundee’s School of Business over nine other offers. He fell in love with Scotland and joined the Macquarie Group three months after graduation
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CEPMLP Alumnus appointed interim CEO of Ecopetrol, a fortune global 500 company
Mr Juan Carlos Hurtado Parra, a CEPMLP alumnus, was appointed interim CEO of Ecopetrol, Colombia’s national oil company, on April 7, 2026
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Adipa Nilachart
Adipa Nilachart from Thailand, graduated from MSc in International Marketing and Management
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A Dundee dynasty: Malaysian father and son both gain a Dundee education
Hakim Manan grew up hearing about Dundee from a very young age. So, when it came to choosing a university to study at, there was no doubt where he wanted to go
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Alumni support for Afghan students
The University of Dundee’s global alumni network is helping to support students from Afghanistan who have come to study at the institution against the backdrop of tumultuous events in their homeland.
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A match made in Dundee - Malaysian student finds both love and her vocation
When Sze San Ngu left Kuching in Malaysia for Scotland 15 years ago, she could not have imagined how the move would transform her life
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Andrea Benitez Rojas: How my Dundee experience helps me shape lives and businesses in Paraguay
Management and Entrepreneurship alumna, Andrea Benitez Rojas from Paraguay, shares how studying at the University of Dundee transformed her life
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A tall story: 3D printed bike sees graduate saddle up for Converge final
When a University of Dundee graduate’s height got in the way of his ambitions to join the pandemic bike boom, it inspired him to investigate the capabilities of 3D printing to help other cyclists of all shapes and sizes
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Collaboration between student and graduate sees new children’s book hit the shelves
A chance connection brought student, Claire Mitchell and graduate Leah-Ann Walmsley-Pledl together to create Mighty Me Adventures with Alf and his Tigersome Tea
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Covid: Combat of a vicious infective disease
Having spent 128 days in hospital Honorary Professor of Orthodontics at the University of Dundee, Grant McIntyre, has the label of being Scotland's sickest Covid-19 survivor.
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Crystal Tao – Bringing China to Dundee
Crystal Tao was always interested in studying abroad. Little did she know just how much her time at Dundee and all that came with it would change her life.
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Developing her own personal brand: Jay Surti's alumni story
Author. Keynote Speaker. Presentation Skills Coach and Consultant. Who knew alumna Jay Surti used to be deathly afraid of public speaking?
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Drawn from experience: top illustrator to host Lecture in Entrepreneurship
World-renowned illustrator, Johanna Basford OBE, will share stories from her colourful career in business to inspire the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.
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Dundee graduate makes Disney movie magic
A University of Dundee graduate hopes to leave moviegoers spellbound this week, as his own magical touch transports them to the fantasy world of Aladdin.
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Dundee graduates kick-start cancer comic book
Two comic book artists are one page closer to launching a new title that shares personal stories of those living with or affected by cancer
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Enabling medical educators across the world
Alumnus, Abdullah Aldahmash, shares his own story from Dundee and how he is working with CME to the benefit of his own institution in Saudi Arabia
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From student to Director and Board member aged 35
Anthony Brennan, International Business with International Relations alumnus, talks about his journey of success in the world of business
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Gaining new skills while studying English Law
Kishan tells us about his experience studying English Law.
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Gemma Gaw: Inspiring the next generation of dentists
Gemma Gaw shares her story, inspiring the next generation of dental students and recognising the challenges that the next generation face in light of Covid-19
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Graduate reaches the finals of a global competition with a cleantech invention
Harris Angeli made it to the final of the international ClimateLaunchpad competition with a cleantech product designed to revolutionise how we charge our electronic devices. He tells us the story behind the product.
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Graduate takes centre stage at film festival
A University of Dundee graduate will receive the red carpet treatment when her latest movie is showcased at the Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF)
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'I discovered my signature style in Dundee' - Johanna Basford OBE
University of Dundee alumna Johanna Basford OBE has shared how her final year studying at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design (DJCAD) was the key to developing her signature style
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Jasmin Hirn
Jasmin from Germany, studied MSc International Marketing. Now a FT Regional Sales Manager, she looks back on her journey with us.
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Monica Maduekwe's career empowering women
Monica Maduekwe is building a career empowering women within the energy sector and fighting for a just transition across West Africa
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New fund to help more University athletes meet their goals
The starting gun has been fired on a new initiative to help more University of Dundee athletes go for glory
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Nursing graduate transforming global maternity and child healthcare
Jonas Nguh has had an acclaimed career in nursing, winning national and global recognition for his work in developing maternity care and child health programmes across the world. He has shared with us his story.
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Packaging Design Award given to student for her vegan chocolate
Gosia Kepka wins an award in the ARTSTHREAD Global Design Graduate Show 2021
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Portrait Artist of the Year accolade for graduate
A University of Dundee graduate has been crowned Portrait Artist of the Year after winning the popular television series of the same name.
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Reflecting on time in Dundee
Parul Mishra from London, travelled to Scotland in 2017 to start her BSc Business Management degree. This was the start of an incredible journey for her. She reflects on her 4-years in Dundee.
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Sharing thoughts of Dundee
Chris Mok from Hong Kong is a graduate of our MSc Finance degree. Now working as a Project Manager with Morgan Stanley in Hong Kong, he shares his thoughts of Dundee
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Sir Henry Dale Fellowship for Joana Faria to establish group at York
Joana Faria, a postdoctoral researcher in David Horn’s Lab (BCDD-WCAIR) has been awarded a Sir Henry Dale Fellowship funded by the Wellcome Trust and the Royal Society.
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Sustainability and steak pies help explain family’s Bahamas-Dundee bounce
When Grant Stirling moves to the University of Dundee from the Bahamas next month he will be going “home” to a place that has come to play a very special role in his family’s life.
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Talonmore Drinks Company – a young Dundee business success story
Despite only graduating in 2020, alumnus Lewis Kennedy has founded his own drinks company against the backdrop of the Covid pandemic
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The Class of 1974: Supporting the next generation
The Robertson Scholars programme, in partnership with the Robertson Trust, supports Scottish students from challenging backgrounds to access a university education
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The Dundee dentist ‘influencing’ the next generation
Lee Strachan talks the impact of Covid-19 on his practice, the influence of Instagram and keeping in touch with the University.
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The Home of the Biscuit Cushion
Scotland’s self-proclaimed ‘Biscuit Lady’ recounts her experiences at the University of Dundee and how they led to a hugely successful business empire.
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The Reading Cure Podcast: Exploring the link between mental wellbeing and books
Alex explains how his interest in the connection between reading and mental wellbeing was sparked during his time at Dundee
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The University of Dundee, the place to recapture my dream
Jing Yang tells of her experience studying at the University of Dundee
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Tracey McFee: Memories of a lifetime
Tracey McFee, Class of 1983 and Specialty Dentist for Dental A&E prepares for retirement and reflects on her time in Dundee
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Xiaoxiao’s destiny to be in Dundee
Xiaoxiao Zhang always wanted to run her own business, and coming to Dundee saw her realising that dream, as well as meeting the love of her life.
