Massimo Capoccia

Massimo Capoccia

What have you been doing since finishing your studies? What are you doing in terms of your career? 

When I decided to apply for a Master in Medical Engineering, I was already established in my profession. It was mainly a personal challenge in the contest of a busy, full time surgical job. Professionally, I have always been interested in mechanical circulatory support of a failing circulation. My aim was to gain some more insights in the field through a different approach.

What company are you working for, what is your role and what does it involve?

I am currently working as a Senior Clinical Fellow in Cardiothoracic Surgery at Royal Stoke University Hospital. I have also started a part-time PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow in 2014. My project is based on studying the interactions between Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) and the cardiovascular system in order to further understand and advance the field. At the same time, I am applying for a consultant position, which is the highest grade as Hospital doctor in the NHS. 

What experiences at Leeds do you think have particularly helped with your career/will help with your future career?

At that time, it was a suitable environment to start in order to gain a solid basic knowledge of key issues. 

Looking back, why did you choose to study your particular course and why did you choose the University of Leeds?

I had already worked in Leeds General Infirmary as part of my rotation and I was familiar with the area and the reputation of the University itself.

What was the best aspect of the course/the University and why? Any highlights?

Overall, it was a very good experience.

What would you say to students thinking about studying the same course at Leeds/thinking about the same career?

It would be the right choice to obtain the basic knowledge. A PhD would be the next step in order to further develop your main interest. Biomedical Engineering is becoming a true multidisciplinary environment with great potential. I would say this is probably the future of Healthcare.