Ajay
Konuri

What made you choose to study PG course at NTU? 

After completing my undergraduate degree in diagnostic radiography, I was searching for a program that would bridge my interests in neuroimaging and MR physics while offering hands-on research experience. The MRes Medical Imaging course at NTU stood out because it was the only research-intensive degree offering significant practical experience. Additionally, NTU’s physics department has consistently been ranked among the best in the country, which was important to me as I came from a health sciences background.

What was the highlight of your course?

It’s hard to pick just one highlight, but I would say my research project was a pivotal moment in my career. The smaller classroom size in my course meant that staff could provide personalised guidance to each student. The project was in collaboration with researchers at the University of Nottingham’s Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre (SPMIC) —a Nobel prize-winning department recognized for its groundbreaking contributions to the development of MRI. My supervisor and course leader played an instrumental role in facilitating this incredible opportunity. My experimental work was carried out at SPMIC. Through this project, I gained hands-on experience and became proficient in cutting-edge quantitative MRI techniques, that have broader applications across a range of diseases.

Did you do any voluntary work alongside your studying?

Yes, I served as the Secretary of NTU’s Drone Society, which was an incredibly fun and educational experience. It gave me the opportunity to organise events, build drones, and, of course, fly them! In addition, I worked as a student ambassador during my early days at NTU and was later promoted to a senior student ambassador within the marketing team. These roles provided valuable opportunities to develop my interpersonal skills while also allowing me to build lasting friendships and connections.

What is your career since graduation?

I still remember my first conversation with my supervisor, Prof. Rob Morris, where I told him about my aspiration to pursue a PhD at the University of Sydney. He replied, "Let’s help you do one." The department at NTU played a crucial role in helping me achieve this goal. Now, I’m pursuing a fully funded PhD at the University of Sydney, using the neuroimaging techniques I learned during my masters project to study the heterogeneity and the trajectories of progression of Lewy body diseases, including Parkinson’s disease.

Did studying a Postgraduate degree help you develop skills for your chosen career?

Absolutely! every aspect of my time at NTU contributed to my career development. The modules were meticulously designed to prepare students for doctoral studies. In addition to the technical and research skills, they also helped us gain less-acknowledged but essential skills, such as applying for ethics approval, conducting literature reviews, and writing grant applications.

My experience presenting my work at the International Society of Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (British-Irish Chapter) was a milestone for me—it was my first time presenting at that level and a confidence-building experience.

I also took the opportunity to engage in outreach activities, teaching physics and science concepts to children. This experience improved my communication skills and deepened my passion for research and education.

What advice would you give to others?

Enjoy your time at NTU and make the most of every opportunity. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the staff—they are always willing to help. Build connections, make friends, and explore your interests. NTU offers a supportive and enriching environment that will help you spread your wings and achieve your goals. Lastly, don’t miss the football matches at the Point!