Meet our PhD student Luciana Terceiro
PhD student Luciana Terceiro explores how design can improve study participants’ engagement in studies on digital healthcare interventions. Photo: Mikael Wallerstedt
In our research group, eight PhD students are investigating a number of different topics. Their research topics ranges from psychological impact of heart disease to support for informal caregivers of individuals with chronic conditions. Luciana Terceiro’s PhD project focuses on how design influences participation and engagement in studies on digital healthcare interventions.
A journey rooted in curiosity
Luciana Terceiro joined our research group in the spring of 2023. It was her interest in digital design theories and methodologies that inspired her to apply for a PhD position within U-CARE. Her background as a user experience designer in the industry gives her a hands-on perspective, enriching her academic research.
Can you describe what a typical day looks like?
– No two days are alike, says Luciana. Today, I am working on a systematic review which includes screening over 7 000 articles. I am also working on two other studies and do administrative tasks.
The administrative tasks include designing the interface of the U-CARE Platform, which is an online research platform.
– I really like that I get to combine design work with research. That keeps me connected with hands-on design during my PhD project.
Challenges, support and growth
Being a PhD student comes with its challenges. For Luciana, the greatest challenge has been to manage different tasks:
– Quite often, you can’t just finish one thing and then move on to the next. My approach is to keep moving forward step by step, even though it’s not always as easy as it sounds.
Luciana appreciates the supportive environment within U-CARE and the CIRCLE research group, especially the groups that support PhD students in their career development and U-CARE’s seminar series Brainpub.
– The seminars and workshops give me a great opportunity to connect with other PhD students, share experiences, and explore topics not directly related to the theme of my PhD project.
Best advice for new PhD students
When asked for her best advice for new PhD students, Luciana emphasises the importance of staying organised to manage the complexities of a PhD project.
– Start organising your work from day one, says Luciana. Whether it’s a diary, a spreadsheet, or a digital tool, it will help you keep track of all your thoughts, ideas, and tasks.
Thank you for sharing a glimpse of your PhD project with us, Luciana! We look forward to seeing the results of your research and following how your journey unfolds!