For 31-year-old Moghadaseh Ahmadi, moving from Iran to Scotland to pursue a PhD at QMU was a chance to combine her passion for research with the opportunity to make a real difference to people's lives.
Now based in Edinburgh, Moghadaseh is researching ways to improve outcomes for people living with footdrop, while developing innovative solutions with the potential to shape future healthcare.
Why did you choose to complete your doctoral training programme at QMU?
I am originally from Iran, and moving to Edinburgh for my PhD was my first experience of living abroad. I moved to Scotland specifically to begin my doctoral studies at Queen Margaret University. It was a big step both personally and professionally, but it has been an incredibly rewarding experience.
One of the main reasons I chose QMU was the expertise of the research team in my area of interest, which is footdrop. Many of the researchers whose work I had followed and admired are based here, which gave me confidence that QMU was the right place for my doctoral studies.
What stood out to me was the team's commitment to conducting research that genuinely improves people's lives, rather than simply producing academic outputs. I was also impressed by the University's support for innovation and commercialisation, which made me feel confident that any impact from my research could potentially reach the people who need it most.
What interested you in pursuing a PhD?
My journey to a PhD has been quite a long one, driven by a continuous sense of curiosity. Interestingly, my current PhD research is a continuation of work that began during my Master's degree. As I progressed through my studies and clinical career, I became increasingly interested in exploring my research topic in greater depth. I was also keen to experience a different education system, develop new skills, and challenge myself academically and professionally. Pursuing a PhD felt like the natural next step to continue learning and making a meaningful contribution to my field.
What interested you about your chosen topic?
My background is in prosthetics, orthotics, and rehabilitation, and I have worked extensively with people living with long-term neurological and musculoskeletal conditions that affect mobility and walking.
My Master's research focused on footdrop, and this remains the focus of my PhD. Footdrop is a symptom associated with a wide range of health conditions and can have a significant impact on people's independence, mobility, and quality of life.
My research aims to better understand the experiences of people living with footdrop and to develop approaches that optimise the selection of assistive devices. Ultimately, I hope this work will improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare burdens, and help inform future clinical practice and policy.
What attracted you to study in Edinburgh?
I have always been fascinated by history, culture, and architecture, and Edinburgh was a city that had long interested me. Living here feels like stepping through history every day, with something unique to discover around every corner. At the same time, Edinburgh offers a vibrant academic environment and excellent facilities for research and innovation. It combines historical character with modern opportunities, making it an ideal place to live, learn, and conduct research.
What do you most enjoy about completing your PhD at QMU? What has been the highlight so far?
What I enjoy most is the encouragement and support for turning research into real-world impact. QMU actively fosters innovation and commercialisation, helping researchers think about how their work can benefit society beyond academia.
One of the highlights of my PhD journey has been seeing how research has the potential to improve people's lives directly. Working in an environment where impact and community benefit are valued so highly has made the research process especially rewarding.
How have your lecturers and supervisors supported your learning?
The support I have received from my supervisors and the wider academic team has been exceptional. They have always been approachable, encouraging, and willing to help whenever needed.
One of the things I value most is the feeling that I can ask questions, discuss ideas, and make mistakes without being judged. That supportive and inclusive environment has played a huge role in my development as a researcher.
What has been the most valuable lesson that you have learned at QMU so far?
One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that research is not about having all the answers straight away - it's about embracing uncertainty, being resilient, and remaining curious.
I have learned the importance of being patient with myself, trusting the process, and recognising that meaningful progress often comes through collaboration, persistence, and continuous learning.
What do you hope to do with your PhD upon graduating?
I would like to continue contributing to QMU and the wider research and healthcare community. I am particularly interested in translating my research into practical solutions that can benefit people living with mobility impairments.
I am also exploring the possibility of developing a spin-out company to commercialise aspects of my research. QMU has supported and inspired that ambition, and I would love to give something back to the University that has felt like a second home during my time here.
Can you sum up your overall experience at QMU?
As someone living abroad for the first time, moving to Scotland could have been a daunting experience. However, QMU has been a wonderful place to study and grow, both personally and professionally.
The staff, students, and wider University community have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. QMU has truly become a second home for me, and I am grateful for the opportunities, encouragement, and experiences I have gained throughout my doctoral journey.
