PGR Representatives | Postgraduate Research College

PGR Representatives

PGR Reps play a vital role in shaping the PGR experience at the 黑料网. They provide insight, feedback, and ideas from across Schools and Faculties to inform University processes, strategy, and policy relating to PGRs. Working collaboratively, they help ensure that the voices of postgraduate researchers are represented in decision-making and that good practice is shared across the University community.

Oportunities to become a PGR Rep get advertised by your School/Discipline when they become available. If you would like to discuss the role and remit of the PGR Reps role please get in touch with us at pgrc@abdn.ac.uk.

Your PGR Reps

Need support or have feedback to share? Your PGR reps are here to represent your voice in both school and university-wide discussions. Reach out to your rep with any questions, ideas, or concerns as your input helps shape the future of research across the university.

School of Biological Sciences

Hi all! My name is Sean Graham, I am a third year PhD studying how Scottish heritage barley “Bere” forms its specialised root zone called “the rhizosheath” where the plant can improve degraded soils, sequester carbon, and use fertilisers more efficiently.

Before Aberdeen, I was working in Reading (England) for a tree and plant health company conducting research on mycorrhizal fungi, urban soils, and tree health. Whilst there, I enjoyed providing technical support on tree and soil management and supervising an “urban trees for the future” arboretum. My passion for plant and soil research is rooted in how people coexist with the natural environment.

I am an early career researcher rep for SULSA (Scottish Universities Life Sciences Alliance): I represent PhD's, Post Docs, and early stage PI's within the Aberdeen’s School of Biological Sciences to advance Scotland’s research and innovation in the life sciences through collaboration.

In my personal life, I describe myself as an active outdoors person who enjoys going for coffee, playing piano, and reading.

If you have any questions or want to share your experiences of life at the university, you can reach me on: s.graham2.23@abdn.ac.uk

School of Biological Sciences

Hi! My name is Helaena Fine, and I started my PhD in the School of Biological Sciences in 2025. I've been in Aberdeen and associated with the university since 2020, starting with my integrated Biological Sciences MSci that I completed in 2025, where I focused on marine & aquatic sciences, and applied genetics. My current PhD research is in conjunction with the Scottish Fish Immunology Research Centre, where I am examining the genetic & molecular basis for Atlantic salmon immunophysiology in response to disease and inflammation, particularly in the context of aquaculture.

I have been highly involved in student support and feedback since joining Aberdeen in 2020, representing members of the University across the Undergraduate, Postgraduate Taught, and now Research level. Additionally, alongside my role as PGR Rep for the School of Biological Sciences, I act as a Student Rep for the EastBio DLA programme where I help support fellow EastBio students and organise official events. I am also an active Student Ambassador and member of the Student Support Team for the 黑料网.

Outside of the lab you'll find me singing in local choirs, playing piano, exploring castles & cemeteries, or enjoying a nice cup of tea!

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any feedback you may have about your experiences at the Uni, or to discuss anything else that's on your mind: h.fine.25@abdn.ac.uk.

School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture

Hello! I'm Loujain Alzahrani, a PhD candidate in Film and Visual Culture and a lifelong visual storyteller. I have a background in visual communication and an MFA in Digital Arts & Animation from Pratt Institute in New York. I've spent years working across the media and marketing world, and these days I freelance as a creative director and writer for animation when I'm not buried under PhD reading or chasing funding and sponsorship for PGR events. I also lecture in Film and Animation at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. I'm deeply curious about how audiences form emotional connections with characters, how they judge and empathise with them, and how they wrestle with moral conflict on screen.

When I'm not doing any of that, I'm probably drawing, running, baking, video gaming, or being dramatically yelled at by my cat, Mr Fox. I'm also passionate about making postgraduate life kinder and more joyful. As the founder and President of the PGR Society, I advocate for PGR voices, wellbeing, and mental health, and I love creating spaces where we can laugh, vent, be honest, and celebrate each other's small wins. I'm proud to say that we've built a community we genuinely love, one where friendships form easily and run deep, where we knock on each other's doors to share meals and birthday cakes on random Fridays, and where someone will always check in with you if you miss a coffee chat.

Feel free to reach out to me to share a coffee and chat over anything (or nothing really): l.alzahrani.24@abdn.ac.uk

If you have any other questions regarding the PGR Society, email us at: pgrsoc@ausa.org.uk

School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture

My Name is Anar AlRuwaie. I am from Kuwait. I am a PGR Representative from the School of Language, Literature, Music, and Visual Culture (LLMVC). I am entering into my third year as a Doctoral Researcher. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in English Language Education, a Master Degree in TESOL from the University of Glasgow, and another Master Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Kuwait University. Before that, I worked as English Language Teacher for almost 10 years teaching intermediate schools' students. I also worked as an English Language Instructor and taught Speaking, Listening, and Advanced Grammar in a foundation program at Algonquin Canadian College. I was also a Co-conference Chair of Languages in TEFL Kuwait.

My PhD research revolves around the use and the impact of Artificial Intelligence software technologies on the improvement of speaking skills of EFL students. Also, my research interests are in the following areas: Assessments using Videogames, Teaching Grammar using songs, and Digital Literacies.

Outside Academia, I am a Coffee Lover! I like Music and Lavender too!

I am here to help you! So, if you want to have a chat, you are welcome to do so.

My office location is: Old Brewery, OBG 07, and I can be reached by email as well: a.alruwaie.22@abdn.ac.uk

School of Natural and Computing Sciences

I am Hassan Raza, a PhD researcher in Computing Science at the 黑料网, with research interests spanning artificial intelligence, computational genomics, clinical and biomedical data science, and longevity science. My work focuses on developing interpretable and data-driven intelligent systems, with particular emphasis on modern AI methods and their real-world applications. I am passionate about innovation, scientific discovery, and contributing to research that has meaningful real-world impact.

Beyond research, I am fascinated by big ideas, bold innovation, and the mindset of building things that can create lasting impact at scale. I enjoy connecting with ambitious people, exchanging ideas, and exploring opportunities where vision, leadership, communication, and strong networks can turn ideas into reality. I believe that meaningful progress often comes from thinking beyond conventional limits, building the right relationships, and having the courage to pursue ideas that can shape the future.

As the Postgraduate Research (PGR) Representative, I aim to act as a strong voice for postgraduate researchers within the School, helping to ensure that student perspectives, concerns, and ideas are heard and addressed effectively. I hope to support initiatives that strengthen the PGR community, encourage collaboration and engagement, and contribute to creating a more supportive, inclusive, and productive research environment where postgraduate researchers can thrive academically and professionally.

School of Social Sciences

My name is Anna Gaudet, and I am the PGR Representative for the School of Social Sciences as a current PhD researcher in Politics and International Relations. My doctoral project investigates gender-based disinformation targeting women politicians during election periods. My areas of academic interest focus on gender politics, mis- and disinformation and political communication taking place within social media environments.

In addition to my role as a PGR rep, I have recently joined the school’s EDI committee and continue to work as a Teaching Assistant in PIR. Through my previous role as a Study Skills Tutor, I was able to build experience around student advocacy and support, which remain important to me as I take on this position as a PGR representative and a member of EDIC.

In my free time I enjoy being outdoors with my two dogs and partner, whether that be in the garden planning the next growing season or out in the Highlands on trails. Otherwise, you might find me inside with my cat reading a book or cooking for friends and family.

Please feel free to reach out to me at any time for a coffee or a chat by contact me at: a.gaudet.23@abdn.ac.uk.