Deconvolution

Real Stories, Real Impact

Academic success is more than individual effort; it thrives on mentorship, guidance, and structured support. Here’s what students, researchers, and professionals have to say about their experiences navigating academia with the help of our platform.

Thesis Writing & Academic Support

Tools for growth, clarity, and independent thinking

🗣 “Exacting yet open support—taught me to think independently. The most impactful support was a combination of rigorous feedback on experimental bottlenecks and the freedom to explore tangents. Gwenin never dictated my direction, but always provided insightful advice, which helped me develop critical thinking while owning my work.” — Tong Ji, Student, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

🗣 “The guidance and skill-based learning Chris provided during my PhD did more than just allow me to complete research—it taught me how to be a more independent researcher, coming up with my own scientific questions and ideas that I continue to use in my research career. I also gained invaluable insight from Chris on how to teach and encourage new or young scientists when they begin their research careers.” — Dr. Simon Anderson, Postdoctoral Researcher, Huddersfield University

🗣 “Chris consistently offered insightful advice, helping me navigate challenges and directing my research effectively. His expertise was evident in every interaction, and his dedication to my project’s success made a significant difference.” — Isaac Thomson, Student, Abertay University

🗣 “Prof. Gwenin was an exceptional mentor—both deeply professional and genuinely personable. He led by example, creating a space where I felt supported and confident in making important decisions about my research. His regular check-ins, expert advice, and encouragement to build holistic academic skills—specifically, writing academic papers, submitting to journals, and strategic planning—were invaluable. I truly wouldn’t have known where to begin without his steady, thoughtful guidance. Working with him made all the difference!” — Dr. Rachel Ashton, Quality Control Coordinator for Vaccines, CSL Seqirus

🗣 “Chris has an adept ability to understand people. During my time working with him, he didn’t just guide me—he expanded my thinking. Instead of offering ready-made solutions, Chris would pose questions that nudged me just enough—five paces short of the answer—so I was still close enough to find my way, but far enough to make it my own. Those conversations, often in his office, shaped not just how I approached challenges but how I understood my own capacity to grow. His thoughtful, values-driven leadership empowered me to stretch beyond what I thought was possible.” — Cole Thompson, Senior Consultant, Turner & Townsend

🗣 “Chris Gwenin was one of my lecturers at Bangor University, and from our first meeting—when he went out of his way to welcome me on an open day—I knew I’d found the right place. His teaching was clear, passionate, and grounded in rigorous science, but what truly set him apart was his care for students’ growth. Even after graduation, he continued to offer guidance and support as I carved out my career. I hold Dr. Gwenin in the highest regard—not only as a brilliant mentor, but now, a trusted friend. If you need help with scientific writing or consulting, I wholeheartedly recommend him.” — Dr. Christopher Cartmell, Research Assistant Professor, The University of Arizona

🗣 “Chris has been a foundation of my scientific career—from undergraduate into PDRA roles—looking for that next step forward into independence. His mentoring regarding grant writing, fellowship applications, and how to hook in expert reviewers has been vital and pivotal to me. More than that, as an ear to listen to the stresses and strains of academia, and always there to support and guide, he has become more than a colleague—he’s someone I trust dearly when it comes to scientific matters.” — Dr. Chester Blackburn, Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Sheffield

🗣 “Gwenin assisted me in refining my research proposal, enhancing my academic skills, and guiding me into the interdisciplinary field of chemistry and biology. More importantly, he helped me understand what it really takes to be a scientific researcher. Beyond academic support, he provided invaluable encouragement during a very difficult period in my life. He is a kind and dedicated person, and I constantly learn from him.” — Yihan Wang, PhD Candidate, Beijing Forestry University

Communication & Connection

Mentorship that listens, empowers, and stays with you

🗣 “Chris has an exceptional knack for combining strategic insight with genuine collegiality. Whether it was advice on research direction or simply a listening ear, he consistently made me feel supported and confident in navigating the demands of academic life.” — Dr. Kevin Smith, Senior Lecturer, Abertay University

🗣 “Chris’s mentorship was a turning point in my professional journey. As a non-native English speaker fresh from my PhD in India, I struggled with clarity and pacing in presentations, but Chris saw through the noise and helped me reshape how I communicated, connected, and carried myself. His support extended far beyond technique; during my pregnancy and return to work, he created a space of genuine care and belonging, where I felt valued as both a researcher and a new mother. Chris’s creativity, compassion, and commitment to community made our team feel like family, and his impact continues to shape how I show up in the world.” — Dr. Poornima Paramasivan, Senior Regulatory Toxicologist, UKRT/ERT

🗣 “Chris was my Head of Department for two brilliant years. He’s the kind of leader who’s always in your corner—solid support when you need it, and the freedom to find your own stride. He’d gently steer me in the right direction whenever I hit a wall. Truly, one of the best bosses I’ve had.” — Linlin Jia, Administrator, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

🗣 “I first met Chris Gwenin when he organised a TB conference. He introduced me to a professor working with the WHO on TB, and this led to a new collaboration focused on diagnostics in the developing world. That was during my postdoc, and Chris continued to mentor me as I transitioned into a lecturer role. He always makes time for students, postdocs, and early-career academics—I’ve felt incredibly lucky to have him in my corner.” — Dr. Ruth Mackay, Senior Lecturer, Brunel University

🗣 “Chris was the perfect cheerleader—someone I knew had my back when I needed it, but who let me grow and lead my own team and programme in my own way. He showed me the value of trusting colleagues to do what they’re great at, while also nudging them gently outside their comfort zone to help them flourish. He did this for me, and I’ve felt empowered to pay that forward with my team. I’m forever grateful for his mentoring, support, and confidence.” — Jude Kelly, Senior Lecturer, Abertay University

🗣 “Professor Gwenin provided us with exceptional insights. He’s been more than a role model in my academic journey at XJTLU—in research, administration, and as a person. His inspiration has stayed with me, even with distance. A reunion would be a gift in itself. Chris, you’ve supported more than you can imagine—we’ll always be behind you.” — Prof. Qiuchen Dong, Assistant Professor, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

Research & Funding Guidance

From strategy to impact; support where it matters

🗣 “Chris is a great sounding board for ideas—little nuggets of Welsh gold over a coffee or a beer. Just beware, everything comes with a forfeit. I still haven’t forgotten doing those external examiner viva’s.” — Dr. Guido Drago, Director, Polygenyn Ltd

🗣 “Chris is a genuine innovator, a great scientist with an entrepreneurial eye.” — Prof. David Shepherd, Professor of Developmental Neurobiology, University of Southampton

🗣 “Chris is a fantastic, engaging collaborator. I had the pleasure of working with him on several occasions, most notably through the CALIN programme, where he connected and supported people, universities, and businesses across Ireland and Wales.” — Prof. Steve Conlan, Professor of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Cardiff University

🗣 “Chris is a fine academic, a meticulous researcher and a dedicated student mentor.” — Dr Andy Ramsay, former Scientist at the World Health Organisation, Geneva.

🗣 “As someone fortunate enough to work closely with Chris at university research level on large multinational grants, I can confidently say he brings expert knowledge, clarity of thought, and well-honed organisational and management skills. Projects don’t fail when Chris is in charge.” — Dr. Leigh Jones, Senior Lecturer, University of Wolverhampton

🗣 “Working under Professor Gwenin’s leadership gave me valuable insights into management—many of which I later applied in my own role. Chris was a consistently supportive presence, promoting balance and well-being. His collaborative spirit, especially through our PhD supervision, made joint work truly rewarding.” — Prof. Graham Dawson, Associate Professor, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

Science Communication & Networking

Connecting knowledge, people, and purpose

🗣 “Collaborations with Chris on multiple industry-focused research projects enabled the most impactful research outputs.” — Dr. Paul Galvin, Head of the Life Sciences Interface Group & ICT for Health Strategic Programmes, Tyndall National Institute

🗣 “Chris has been an incredibly supportive mentor throughout my PhD journey. Since I began in 2023, he’s been generous with his time, thoughtful in his feedback, and clear in his guidance. His deep knowledge and approachable nature create a space where questions are welcomed, and growth feels possible. I always leave our conversations feeling more capable, clearer, and genuinely encouraged.” — Jessica Mahajan, PhD Student, Abertay University

🗣 “Chris’s warmth and guidance turned uncertainty into a peaceful, enriching chapter. His mentorship shaped my academic growth and sense of belonging.” — Dr. Roshan Morve, Postdoctoral Researcher, Bangor University

🗣 “Working with Chris showed me that leadership doesn’t have to mean distance. His openness and responsiveness created a culture where everyone felt heard and valued.” — Dr. Kevin Smith, Senior Lecturer, Abertay University

🗣 “Working with Professor Gwenin was profoundly transformative—his mentorship shaped my academic identity. He expanded my thinking, introduced new research areas, and continues to inspire through his generous support.” — Dr. Mohammad Rizwan, University Professor, University of Lodz, Poland

🗣 “I had the pleasure of working with Chris when he became Head of Division in my area of university lecturing. Chris demonstrated tenacity and a clear focus on helping staff achieve academic outcomes and realise their career goals. I especially appreciated his support as I transitioned out of academia and into a different path altogether.” — Leah Hosie, Lecturer, Abertay University

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