Dan Gill (MSc Computer Science by Research, 2024)
In group coursework for one module (Interactive System Design) our team designed, developed, and presented a prototype of a novel communication tool for non-speaking autistic children. I’m enormously proud of the work our group put into this project as well as for our final presentation, for which we received the “best presentation” award. This idea has now been used as the basis for BSc and MSc projects, co-supervised by my PhD supervisor and myself.
Why did you choose to study your programme?
My initial appreciation of research stemmed from my BSc Computer Science (also at Queen Mary) Final Year Project, where, supervised by Dr Mustafa Bozkurt, I worked on a very personal project creating an app for people with disabilities to navigate transport networks. From this experience, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in research, and this programme provided a unique mix of taught modules to continue to develop my computer science skills, and a larger research project through which to apply these skills and techniques to a real-world problem.
Why did you choose to study at Queen Mary?
Having studied at Queen Mary for my BSc, I came to realise that it was the perfect university for me. While still benefitting from the London buzz, the campus, away from the central bustle, provides a safe and calm space where one can focus on learning. Being autistic, the great support that is provided by QM’s Disability & Dyslexia Service was another important reason.
What did you most enjoy about your course?
Working with my supervisor (Dr Tony Stockman) was an absolute blast. His experience and wisdom made the research project a delight to work on while creating the perfect environment for me to develop my research skills.
I was also particularly impressed by the number and breadth of taught modules. With the help of my supervisor, I chose four modules which were both highly relevant to my research and very interesting in their own right.
What are you proud of from your experience at Queen Mary?
In group coursework for one module, Interactive System Design, our team designed, developed, and presented a prototype of a novel communication tool for non-speaking autistic children. I’m enormously proud of the work our group put into this project as well as for our final presentation, for which we received the “best presentation” award. This idea has now been used as the basis for BSc and MSc projects, co-supervised by my PhD supervisor and myself.
Which modules did you enjoy the most and were there any academics that had a strong influence on shaping your time and studies here?
In addition to the above, I found the first-semester Research Methods module to be a hugely valuable experience, where I was able learn about the methods that I would soon be putting into practice for my research project.
Because of the related and linked modules, the same small roster of academics taught my modules. All the academics who taught me did a wonderful job and continued to support me with applying what I learnt to my research work.
Were you a member of any societies or attend any industry events during your time at Queen Mary? If so which and what did you gain from them?
During my Master’s, I was the president of the Students with Disabilities society, through which we created a close-knit community, held social, fun and educational events, and were able to do a bit of campaigning with the Students’ Union. The event I’m most proud of was our “Disability in Research” event, highlighting the work of researchers at QMUL who have disabilities or do research about disabilities. Creating this interdisciplinary space was enormously valuable, and something I hope to continue throughout my career.
What is your current position?
I am now a PhD student at Queen Mary, under the supervision of one of the academics who taught me for my Master’s, Dr Ekaterina Ivanova. I am studying how human-robot interaction patterns might be different for autistic people, using both experimental and participatory methods. Having applied during my degree, I moved straight onto the PhD after a couple of weeks rest!
My typical day includes an exciting mix of emails, supervision meetings, admin work, plus meeting with academics, some teaching, and attending PhD training.
The skills that I developed during my MSc degree have given me an enormous head start on my research career. Having experienced and applied for ethical approval before, for example, meant that it was a breeze to complete it for the PhD.
What's one piece of advice you'd offer to someone considering studying your programme at Queen Mary?
Say ‘yes’ to opportunities that come your way, and don’t be afraid to try something new. When the next interview or presentation comes around, you’ll have a great story to share! As per the famous proverb goes: “actions speak louder than words”.