A determined and hardworking Queen’s student is graduating with a PhD in Osteoarchaeology today, having turned a life-altering accident into an extraordinary academic achievement. 

Dr Jessica White's PhD research explores the biomechanics of physically impaired individuals in medieval Ireland, offering a rare and deeply empathetic perspective on the lives of those who faced mobility challenges centuries ago. 

Jess started her PhD in January 2019 under the supervision of Professor Eileen Murphy, focusing on reconstructing the gait of individuals with physical impairments in an archaeological context. 

But her path to today’s achievement was far from straightforward. In May 2022, Jess suffered a serious motocross accident, shattering her lower leg. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and facing the possibility of amputation, Jess defied the odds, pushing through excruciating physical challenges while advancing her research and working full-time as an osteoarchaeologist. 

Reflecting on her journey, Jess shares:   

“In one sense, the PhD gave me a reason to get up. People encouraged me to rest and leave it for a while, but having the research to focus on was grounding. There were tough days – rewriting parts of my thesis due to memory loss from medication, or researching injuries I was living with myself, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of what the people I studied might have faced. 

“In hindsight, it really helped my research, but 10/10 do not recommend this type of experimental archaeology!”

Support from Queen’s played a vital role in Jess’s resilience:   

“The staff at Queen’s were incredible. From my supervisor, Professor Murphy, to the library team, everyone was so understanding of my circumstances. I couldn’t have done it without their kindness and flexibility.” 

Today, Jess graduates with a PhD and a profound connection between her personal experiences and academic work. Back on her motorbike and looking ahead, she plans to continue merging her insights with her research, deepening our understanding of the resilience and adaptability of people in the past. 

Jess reflects on the challenges she’s faced and overcome:   

“The hardest part wasn’t just the surgeries or being unable to walk – it was finding the strength to keep going when everything felt impossible. I hope my journey can show others that even in the darkest times, there’s a way forward.” 

Jess’s story shows that adversity can forge new paths and that through determination and support, even the toughest journeys can lead to triumph. 

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