Mohamed Mousa PhD in Engineering & The Environment / Medicine
PhD researcher
My research is looking at the development of a clay/stem cell formula which, when injected into the site of injury or disease, can regenerate damaged bones, eliminating in many cases the need for painful and expensive surgeries. My course is highly unique, exciting and very promising; at Southampton, we really are changing the world.
What made you choose to come and study at Southampton?
I chose the University of Southampton mainly because I’m very excited about my research topic (clay / regenerative medicine), for which the University Of Southampton is the leading institute, and the first in the world to discover, in addition to its high rank and great reputation in teaching and scientific research.
Can you provide a summary of the research you are working on within your course?
I’m exploring ways to regenerate human bones by mixing your own stem cells with clay. I’m aiming to develop an injectable clay/ stem cell formula that, when injected into the site of defect or fracture, can regenerate bones damaged due to cancer or hip replacement failure, eliminating in many cases the need for painful and expensive surgeries.
How have the facilities available at the University helped you with your research?
The facilities here are really highly advanced and have helped me a lot in my research. For example, I regularly use the IT services, and I’m impressed by the library and our very advanced lab equipment and instruments. I can say that I have been able to find most of the facilities I’ve needed in my research easily in Southampton, and the people responsible for supervising them are prepared to help at any time.
What is it like studying here?
As a student in Southampton, I feel that the experience is not restricted to studying. Southampton has given me the chance not only to develop new ideas in my research, which I’m very excited about, but also to enjoy my social life as well.
What have been your Southampton highlights so far?
My best experience in Southampton was when I presented, for the first time in Southampton, my PhD topic to my group, Bone and Joint. I realised at this moment that I’m a part of a team that is working hard to change the world.
What are you enjoying most about your course?
My course is highly unique, exciting and very promising. Only two or three groups in the world are discovering this interesting research line: Southampton, the leading group, and Harvard-MIT. You can imagine that one day someone will be able to regenerate his own body parts by mixing his own stem cells with clay. Amazing, isn’t it? I enjoy that I feel I'm representing such a great idea, and that I’m dedicating my life to give new hope for those suffering due to tissue damage or loss.
Do you have any idea of what you would like to do in the future? Have the opportunities you have taken up while at the University helped you have a clearer idea of what you might like to do?
I would like to become a successful scientist in the future, who can reach the clay/stem cell formula by which we can regenerate these damaged or lost tissue due to disease or injury while avoiding painful and expensive surgeries. I would like also to commercialise this idea in the future.
What other activities have you taken advantage of while at University?
I was a participant in the Science and Engineering Festival in 2016 and had the opportunity to explain our research to a public audience. In addition, I represented the Faculty of Medicine in the Roadshow at BBC Countryfile Live 2016 at Blenheim Palace. I’ve also enjoyed playing football at the Students' Union sports centre.
Do you like living in Southampton? What are the benefits of Southampton as a city?
I love Southampton; it is one of my favourite cities, if not my most favourite one! I’ve lived in France, Canada, and Portugal for my studies, but I feel at home in Southampton. This city is great, with friendly people and a green environment.
What advice would you give to prospective University of Southampton PhD students?
I would advise them to enjoy their life in Southampton and feel very proud about their university. We really are changing the world. Do not stress too much, but love your course and your project. Do not take it as a heavy task, but feel that you are a part of a team that is working to improve people’s lives and make a difference. Believe me, it is much better this way.