Can you introduce yourself and a bit about your background?
I’m 23 years old and from Merseyside. I’m currently a second-year PhD student in the Department of Chemistry.
Why did you choose the University of Liverpool for your postgraduate studies, and where did you complete your undergraduate degree?
I studied my undergraduate degree at Liverpool, so it seemed like a natural progression to continue my postgraduate studies here due to the familiarity I had with the university and department.
What inspired you to choose chemistry as your field of study?
The breadth of career options associated with a chemistry degree really appealed to me and inspired my decision.
How has your educational journey, including schools you’ve attended, shaped your approach to chemistry?
It instilled a methodical way of working—breaking down my work into manageable sections and approaching each part with focus and structure.
What are your specific research areas and any key findings or goals?
My research focuses on Magnetic Particle Imaging tracer design optimisation. Specifically, I’m using polymer architecture to control the synthesis of SPIONs (Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles).
What has been your biggest achievement during your postgraduate studies so far and how did it make you feel?
Presenting my work orally at the American Chemical Society (ACS) conference in New Orleans. It gave me a real sense of achievement and validation in the work I’ve been doing.
What challenges have you encountered during your research so far, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was learning how to form a clear narrative around the goals of my research. I overcame this through extensive reading and placing my work within a broader scientific context.
How would you describe the current culture of inclusion within the chemistry department?
It seems very open and inclusive, although there is still progress to be made to ensure representation is more reflective of the wider population.
How do you think the department supports students and staff from diverse backgrounds?
By creating an inclusive atmosphere where your background is not seen as relevant to the quality or impact of your work—it’s all about what you contribute scientifically.
What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue their postgraduate studies in Chemistry?
Make sure postgraduate study aligns with your long-term career goals. It’s also important to plan ahead—set goals and structure your time weekly to stay on track.
Back to: Department of Chemistry