I chose an MD research project in breast cancer. I spent the first year setting up, and optimising the new technology of Multi-colour Fluorescent In Situ Hybridisation, which has allowed the detailed analysis of chromosomal aberrations occurring in breast cancer. I also developed the skill of tumour culture and metaphase preparation. I hope that this insight into the basic science of breast cancer will increase my understanding of this disease in order to improve my overall care and treatment of patients having breast tumour excision followed by reconstruction.