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Molecular & Cellular Medicine

Maria Kyriazi

  • Doctoral Studies
  • Oxford, United Kingdom

About Me

I am a doctoral researcher specializing in Molecular and Cellular Medicine at the University of Oxford (United Kingdom), funded by a full scholarship from the A. Onassis Foundation and Oriel College, Oxford. My research focuses on the biological mechanisms of ageing that alter cellular function over time and lead to musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoarthritis.

I completed my Undergraduate Studies in Biomedical Genetics at Newcastle University (UK), followed by a Master’s degree in Ageing. Having worked in several research institutes, I have gained extensive experience studying age‑related diseases, immune‑system disorders, and genetic conditions.

Why I Chose My Career

My love for research and the curiosity sparked during my Undergraduate Studies were the driving forces that led me to delve deeper into my field and pursue scientific research. Over the years, I have been fortunate to meet inspiring professors, teachers, researchers, collaborators, and supervisors who became mentors and nurtured my passion for science.

From a young age, I wanted to understand why we develop diseases — and, more importantly, how we can eliminate them. Although a career as a medical doctor once seemed like the obvious path, research in the life sciences showed me that we can help people profoundly by working behind the scenes — sometimes with nothing more than a pipette.

Why I Became a Volunteer at R.E.A.L Science

Having graduated from a Greek public school, I know firsthand how essential — yet often insufficient — career guidance is for middle‑ and high‑school students. Platforms like R.E.A.L Science play a crucial role in introducing young people to diverse career paths early on, especially to professions that may not be widely known.

I strongly believe in sharing knowledge and, above all, in empowering the next generation to discover their talents and thrive in what makes them truly happy. To achieve this, students need the right tools: awareness of possible career paths, accurate information, and emotional support.

Although I have been living and studying abroad for several years, I believe that those of us who have followed this path have a responsibility to bring back what we have learned. Volunteering with R.E.A.L Science is one meaningful way to do exactly that.