SUPPORTING POSTGRADUATE SCHOLARS FOR BREAKTHROUGHS

Philanthropy drives some of our most remarkable research achievements at Kent. Our PhD students are at the forefront of diverse research areas, from pioneering cancer treatments to addressing climate change.

In 2007, Sam Godfrey was awarded the Alumni Postgraduate Research Scholarship, which funded his PhD in Biochemistry. His research focused on developing a targeted therapy for cancer treatment. Over three years, Sam and his team developed an antibody that specifically targets cancer cells, minimizing side effects of traditional treatments like radiation and chemotherapy.

After earning his doctorate, Sam continued his groundbreaking work as a Post Doctorate Research Associate at Imperial College London. There, he collaborated with scientists, doctors, engineers, and physicists to explore innovative methods for nerve repair. This research holds significant potential for aiding conflict victims and advancing therapies for paralysis, traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer's disease.

Sam's journey from Kent to Imperial College London ultimately led him to Cancer Research UK, where he works tirelessly to forge partnerships and drive progress in cancer research. Sam acknowledges the pivotal role that alumni support played in his journey:

'Without the support of Kent alumni, I wouldn't have achieved my PhD and the position I hold today. The Alumni Postgraduate Research Scholarship, funded by alumni like you, allowed me to fully focus on my studies and pursue my passion for cancer research.’

Fully-funded scholarships are essential to empower the brightest students to lead in research and address global challenges. Your support is vital in realising this vision.

• A monthly gift of £20 from a hundred donors would cover a PhD student’s living cost for a year.
• A monthly gift of £40 would enable a PhD student to travel to and attend an academic conference.
• A monthly gift of £80 would enable a PhD student to undertake an overseas study visit that is essential to their study.
• An annual gift of £500 would help with language course costs or cover primary research costs such as consumables which are not provided by their Divisions.
• An annual gift of £5,000 would help cover tuition fees for a PhD student at the home rate for a year.