Michal Schneider

Profession: Physiologist

Current position: Associate Professor/Director of Research/Deputy Head, Dept of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne

Years qualified: PhD 2002

Research areas of interest: Broad field of interest including RT, DI (MSK and Ultrasound), PET & PET/CT, biosafety of neonatal cranial ultrasound

Research qualifications: MRepSc, PhD

What is your greatest research achievement?

Obtaining an NHMRC Grant and supervising PhD students to completion

Why and how did you get involved in research?

Initially, I enrolled in the PhD for the mental challenge. But I enjoyed it so much, I made research my daily work.

How do you balance research/work/family life?

This is difficult at times but I try and avoid taking work home on weekends. I do though check emails…….

How did you find a mentor/supervisor?

I asked other researchers about their experiences in the field I was interested in. The relationship between student and supervisor is more important than the topic. You have to work together for several years so you need to get along and maintain a sense of humour.

What was your supervisor’s best advice?

Keep publishing!

What do you enjoy most about being involved in research?

Working on a project that will result in novel information, potentially changing practice. It’s wonderful to see research translate into improved healthcare.

What has been your biggest challenge or barrier to being involved in research?

The old standards – time and money. It’s getting harder and harder to secure funding and my academic load is growing too fast.

What one piece of advice would you give other researchers?

Find a good supervisor/mentor and a project that grabs you – your passion, coupled with good mentorship will get you through the sticky times.