Local Graduate Overcomes Challenges to Excel in Cancer Research

Mollie Browes’ journey from hardship to academic success

Mollie Browes, a 28-year-old graduate from the University of Bradford, has completed a Master of Research in Drug Development after overcoming significant personal and academic challenges. Her story highlights resilience and determination in the face of adversity, as well as the support available through university services.

Early life and challenges

Mollie grew up in a difficult environment marked by addiction, instability, and mental health struggles. Despite these challenges, she was encouraged by family members, including her aunt who helped improve her science grades during her GCSEs. Mollie’s father, Anthony, who was a talented cricketer, passed away from an accidental overdose in 2018, a loss Mollie describes as one of the most defining moments of her life.

Educational journey

• Originally enrolled in Applied Sciences in 2015, Mollie paused her studies due to mental health issues.
• She returned in 2018 and transferred to Biomedical Sciences, but had to pause again following her father’s death.
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mollie faced homelessness and further mental health difficulties.
• In 2021, she was the victim of a violent attack that resulted in a broken leg and a lengthy recovery period.

Despite these obstacles, Mollie continued her studies with support from the university, including counselling and disability services. She was diagnosed with severe combined-type ADHD and complex PTSD, and credits her mental health advisor for ongoing support.

Academic achievements

Mollie’s academic performance improved significantly in her final year of undergraduate study. She graduated with a 2.1 in Biomedical Science and received a first-class dissertation titled “Expression profiling genes involved in vitamin D and integrin signalling pathways.” She also won the Terry Baker Prize for overcoming adversity and earned joint first place for her research poster.

Encouraged by the university’s Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, Mollie pursued a Master of Research in Drug Development, completing the programme in 12 months. Her master’s dissertation, which also received a first, focused on the development of activatable fluorescent probes for imaging cancer activity, potentially aiding in more precise cancer treatments and diagnostics.

Future plans and message

Mollie is currently seeking roles in medicinal chemistry, analytic chemistry, and bio-analysis to further develop her expertise. Her long-term ambition is to become an independent cancer researcher, contributing to the understanding and treatment of cancer at the molecular level.

She advises others facing difficulties not to let circumstances define their potential and to seek available support. Mollie emphasises the importance of self-belief and perseverance.

University staff comments

• Goreti Ribeiro Morais, Lecturer in Medicinal Chemistry, described Mollie’s attitude as a strong example of resilience and commitment.
• Ethan Perkins, Institute of Cancer Therapeutics PGT Lead and Mollie’s Personal Academic Tutor, praised her resilience and determination to achieve her goals despite numerous challenges.

Mollie’s graduation took place shortly before the anniversary of her father’s death, a moment she marked with reflection on his pride in her achievements.