A forensic science graduate is appealing to the Island’s philanthropists to lend him $35,000 towards his doctoral studies.

Bermudian Mark Amaral has won a coveted place on a PhD course in security science at the University College London but found out too late to apply for a scholarship to pay for fees and other expenses.

The 27-year-old has saved $15,000 but estimates that he needs $50,000 to embark on the four-year course in the UK next month.

“There’s got to be some philanthropic, generous people out there,” he said. “I am not looking for handouts — I need an education loan. Once I’ve funded the first year, I’m confident that between funding for research programmes and bursary/scholarship opportunities, I should be able to manage.”

He said he would have applied for a scholarship this year but the application process for the course was a lengthy one, involving presentations and interviews with an academic board.

“Unfortunately, it just takes a very long time. If I don’t get the money, I will have to pass up on the opportunity. If you defer, you have to reapply and go through the process again.

“Because of the nature and the intensity of the programme, we do not have holiday breaks and we are not permitted to take on a job during the programme.”

Mr Amaral believes he is the first Bermudian to gain a place on the course and says the programme itself is the only one of its kind in the world.

“What they are trying to do is tackle real-world issues,” he said. “They try to tackle terrorism, money laundering, baggage screening, child sex abuse.”

The former Saltus Grammar School student has a bachelor’s degree in biological science from the University of Guelph in Canada, a master’s in forensic science from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, and recently completed a postgraduate certificate in forensic drug chemistry.

“It’s really what I love,” he said. “[Forensic analysis] is really the most important thing you can do to combat crime.”

Having previously worked for Government’s tiny forensics department, he believes there is much scope to broaden the use of forensics on the Island — and he hopes to play a key part.

“I’d like to get my PhD, get some experience under my belt and come back to Bermuda and have people listen to me,” he said. “I know it [forensics] is on the back burner of a lot of politicians’ minds right now with the way the Island is going. I think it’s a very important aspect that’s being overlooked in Bermuda.”

Mr Amaral and his supporters will hold a fundraising yard/bake sale on Saturday, August 23 between 9am and 3pm on Radnor Road in Hamilton Parish.

He can be e-mailed at mark.a.amaral@gmail.com.