Dr Amudha Poobalan, MBBS, MSc, PhD
Dr Amudha is based within the Institute of Applied Health Sciences and is the programme co-ordinator for the MSc in Public Health Research. She has extensive experience in teaching and training healthcare professionals and post graduate research students in obesity epidemiology, evidence based health and qualitative research methods.
She lectures post graduate students in health indicators, public health challenges in obesity management, health policy and strategies, systematic reviewing, evidence based practice and mixed methods research design. She also coordinates the courses of 'Systematic Reviewing' and 'Public Health research projects'.
Amudha‘s field of research is behavioural modification and lifestyle interventions for disease prevention. Application of ‘Behavioural change theories’ and use of ‘Participatory action research’ have become my core competencies in developing lifestyle interventions.
Her research project funded by UGC – UK-India Education and Research Initiative partnership titled Vellore-Aberdeen Nutrition Exchange (VANE) Project looked at increase in obesity levels in rural India over a period of 30 years and assess the differences in prevalence of obesity and cardiovascular risk factors in rural, urban poor and urban affluent populations. The use of Systematic reviewing of the literature and the application of well-developed combination of quantitative and qualitative research methodology (mixed method studies), which is essential in addressing complex public health issues, is at the heart of her projects.
She has authored 32 publications including peer-reviewed scientific articles, commissioned reports and a book chapter.
Amudha graduated as a Medical Doctor (MBBS) from Christian Medical College, Vellore in South India in 1991 (www.cmch-vellore.edu). She obtained an MSc in Health Services and Public Health Research (2000) and PhD in Public Health (2011) from the University of Aberdeen (www.abdn.ac.uk), under the supervision of Professor Cairns Smith, Prof Amanda Clarke and Dr Lorna Aucott. In her PhD, she studied the lifestyle behaviours in young people (18 - 25 year olds), who are at a critical transition point from adolescence to adulthood, in the context of prevention of obesity.
Dr Srinivas Sriramula
Lecturer Safety and Reliability Engineering
Srinivas is currently an LRF Lecturer in Safety and Reliability Engineering at the University of Aberdeen. He has joined as a Lecturer at the School of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen in August 2009. Prior to that, he was a Postdoctoral Researcher (Oct 2006 - July 2009) at the University of Surrey working on CREDO (Composites Reliability from Engineering Design Optimisation) project.
Srinivas has received his PhD from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras focusing on Copula based Simulations for Engineering systems. He has a Masters degree in Structural Engineering from MNNIT and was awarded the Sir Arthur Cotton Gold Medal (2000) by Nagarjuna University, India for securing highest marks in B.Tech (Civil Engineering).
UG student Varun Sahani (Business & Finance)
Why did you choose to study at the University of Aberdeen?
I chose the University of Aberdeen because of its rich history and reputation for being a pioneer in education. Its reputation, not just in Scotland but globally, really resonated with me when I was deciding where to study.
What are you studying and why does it interest you?
As an undergraduate studying Business Management and Finance, I have been fascinated by how businesses operate, compete, and grow. I have always been eager to understand what gives businesses their competitive edge, and that curiosity drives me to seek out knowledge and engage with people in the field.
Have you undertaken any practical experience (work experience/workshops/field trips, etc.) during your degree so far?
Being a student at Aberdeen has opened up some incredible opportunities for me. I have represented the university in the UK Universities Sales Competition 2024, won the Harvard Business Coffee Shop Simulation Competition, and completed internships at PwC Aberdeen and Carbon Financial Partners. During my second year, I was also awarded an academic prize from Carbon Financial Partners for my performance in a finance module.
What was the highlight of your practical experience?
The real highlight of my practical experience at Aberdeen has been the overall learning journey. I have had the chance to engage deeply with lecturers outside of class, learning from their insights and gaining a broader understanding of the industry. It has been a great blend of academic and personal growth.
How do you feel about your career prospects now compared to before you started your degree?
I feel much more confident in my abilities and career prospects. The education I have received has significantly contributed to my professional development.
What training and support have you received during your studies/research? How has it helped you?
The training and support I have received at the University of Aberdeen have been incredible. I have always been able to reach out to professors with questions, whether about coursework or assignments. In addition, the support from Student Services, SRAs, and Chaplaincy has provided essential guidance throughout my studies.
What do you enjoy most about studying at Aberdeen?
What I enjoy most about Aberdeen is the sense of community. The city itself is beautiful, with amazing architecture, but it is the people that make it special. Aberdonians are incredibly kind and always willing to lend a hand. Fit like? Nae bad!
What would you tell someone who is considering studying at the University of Aberdeen?
If you are considering studying at the University of Aberdeen, it is a fantastic place for personal and professional growth. There is so much to learn here, but the key is to be open to challenges and trust that each experience, whether in or out of the classroom, helps you develop. Stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for making the most of your time here.
