Careers Seminar Explores the Journey from Medicine to AI
Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming Dr Jonathan Gregory who delivered an enlightening Careers Seminar. Dr Gregory explained his involvement in the realms of Psychology and the cutting-edge fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science. The Seminar entitled ‘Mind, Medicine and Machines: An Odyssey from Psychology to AI through Medicine and Surgery’ illuminated the twists and turns of his career path, offering invaluable insights into the worlds of medicine, surgery, and digital health.
Dr Gregory began by sharing his academic journey, highlighting his choice of A Level subjects of Biology, Chemistry, and Geography, and his initial ambition to pursue Medicine at university. However, he candidly recounted the challenges he faced with university rejections and the subsequent adjustments he made during Sixth Form, ultimately finding his way into the field of Psychology before moving into Pharmacology. This initial divergence from his intended path marked the beginning of his career journey.
He explained his route to university, including a Postgraduate Degree in Medicine which he described as feeling like his purpose and passion aligned. Dr Gregory emphasised the dynamic nature of goals and aspirations, illustrating how objectives can evolve amidst life’s twists and turns. From his diverse medical discipline experiences in various medical specialities such as surgery, A&E, orthopaedics, and oncology working in multiple locations including Manchester, Bolton, Shrewsbury, Oswestry, and London, to balancing personal milestones like marriage and fatherhood, Dr Gregory’s journey epitomised resilience and adaptability.
Drawing from his time working in oncology, he highlighted the intersection of medicine and technology, where he ventured into designing implants and engaging in pioneering surgical procedures.
Three years ago, Dr Gregory made a significant career pivot, moving from Medicine to Data Science. This shift led him to start his own company and charity, where he leverages Artificial Intelligence to enhance healthcare outcomes, reflecting how his background in psychology now intersects with his work in digital health.
During the Seminar, he shared valuable wisdom with pupils, urging them to embrace the fluidity of career paths and seize every opportunity that comes their way. He emphasised the significance of resilience, reminding pupils that not all career paths follow a traditional story arc, and that’s perfectly okay.
The Seminar concluded with an engaging Q&A session, during which pupils eagerly asked questions about Medicine, career choices, work-life balance, and more. The Seminar left pupils with valuable insights to navigate their own future career paths.
Dr Gregory is a parent at the School and we extend our thanks to him for giving up his time and sharing his remarkable journey with the pupils. His Seminar truly emphasised the power of resilience, purpose, and lifelong learning.