Biochemistry degree personal statement example (1e) Edinburgh offer, work experience

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Last summer, after a frantic year of fundraising, I was fortunate enough to be able to travel to Namibia, where I worked as a science teacher in a rural community school. Introducing the concept of evolution to my Biology class was a fantastic opportunity for me, and it gave me the chance to explain, much to the amazement of my students, the science behind human skin colours. As I described how stratum corneum prevents dehydration, how melanin limits Vitamin D production and the importance of both in the evolution of skin, I was struck by the sheer potential of scientific research. These students had never known life without a racial divide. However, science had enabled this barrier to be broken down into cellular components and, in doing so, had demonstrated that there is no bold line between black and white. It became clear to me that research is the greatest vehicle for progress, and I am now determined to play my part.

Genetics is a truly fascinating branch of scientific research. The findings of the Human Genome Project have facilitated an exponential increase in our understanding of the traits and disorders linked to specific genes. However, many questions remain unanswered. I have often wondered, for example, how my 102 year old great grandfather has been able to lead such a long and healthy life. The recent discovery of genetic switches presents us with similarly challenging question: how could they be applied in medicine? My studying of Advanced Higher RMPS has taught me the importance of morals and restrictions when harnessing technologies such as IVF, genetic engineering and cloning. One controversial development is a three-person fertility treatment, which prevents damaged mitochondrial DNA being passed on by inserting the nucleus of the mother's egg into a healthy donor egg. This interests me as it signals an crucial crossroad in assisted reproduction: we must soon decide whether the elimination of diseases outweighs the preservation of traditional parenthood.

Keeping track of scientific advances on the internet, in the New Scientist magazine and through talks is very important to me. Did you hear that they cured deafness in gerbils with stem cells? The gerbils certainly did. I recently attended a fascinating university lecture on the structure and action of antibodies. In a world where viruses are constantly mutating, I find it comforting that we possess an equally adaptable and precise cellular defence mechanism. However, the human body alone cannot keep medical catastrophes at bay. As more and more antibiotics are rendered useless by resistant infections, there is a dire need for new drugs, vaccines and ideas. This is what draws me to biochemistry: it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in future medical advancements, as it has done so often in the past.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

Having volunteered at a Cancer Research UK charity shop and in the grants and funding department of the charity AICR, I have witnessed the significance of science on various levels. But it was my time on the frontline, in a biochemical research lab, that I enjoyed the most. From growing up cultures to isolating proteins, my week long placement provided me with invaluable hands-on experience, as well as introducing me to important concepts such as sterile technique. A highlight of the experience was when mass spectrometry revealed that I have a rare bacterium living inside my ear: the sequence of a particularly abundant protein found in a colony there was undocumented.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

The communication of science is something that I find incredibly rewarding. My roles within school as a Chemistry coach for the Top of the Bench team and the science correspondent for the Citizen newspaper have given me the opportunity to utilise my enthusiasm for the subject in a productive way. As a member of my school's debating team, I have refined my ability to assemble rational and reasoned arguments, competing in two national competitions.

I feel that my enthusiasm, dedication and drive leave me well equipped for university, and I eagerly anticipate getting started.

Universities applied to:

• Edinburgh University (Biochemistry)
• University of Aberdeen (Biochemistry)
• University of Dundee (Biochemistry)
• University of Glasgow (Biochemistry)
• University of St Andrews (Biochemistry)

Grades achieved:

• Biology (Higher) - A
• English (Higher) - A
• Modern Studies (Higher) - A
• Maths (Higher) - A
• Physics (Higher) - A

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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