Pupils from Craigour Park Primary School in Edinburgh interviewed some of our staff and PhD students about their research. In this article, they spoke to Prof Cait MacPhee about her research with bacteria.
What is your favourite animal to study?
A certain type of bug that helps trees grow. It can be found in the soil.
What do you think about the coronavirus?
I am interested in it. It is important that we keep washing our hands.
When you finish washing your hands, how much bacteria goes back onto your hands afterwards?
There will always be bacteria on your hands. There are also a lot of good bacteria too.
What is it like being the first female physics professor in the University of Edinburgh?
I really like it. I helped 7 other people join too.
What’s your favourite thing to study out of: humans, bacteria and animals?
Bacteria is simple and that is the reason I like to study it. Animals and humans are much harder to research.
What is the craziest thing that you have done as a child or adult?
I went up a volcano in New Zealand. I was pregnant at the time.
What is your favourite event of the year?
I love the summer holiday because you don’t have to work.
Which animal is your favourite, and why?
My favourite animals are dogs. They are loyal and helpful. Dogs are also friendly and can keep you company.
If you were going to an island, what three things would you bring?
I would take a tool, sunscreen and a candle. A candle to read with, a tool for shelter and sunscreen so you don’t get burnt.
Links and resources
- Check out all our Craigour Park Primary School interviews.
- Read more about this project with Craigour Park Primary School, Edinburgh.
- Learn more about Cait’s research