Can you introduce yourself and a bit about your background?
I’m Veronica Del Angel Hernandez. I'm originally from Mexico. I studied chemical engineering at the University of Guanajuato and then did my PhD in Bristol in materials chemistry. Then I joined Andy Cooper’s group at the University of Liverpool where I have been working on CO₂ reduction using covalent organic frameworks and automated electrochemistry.
Why did you choose the University of Liverpool as your place of work?
I did my PhD in materials chemistry and I really wanted to work with Andy as he had some interesting science going on in covalent organic frameworks and how to tune their band gap to photocatalysis, which was something I really wanted to learn. The University has a lot of amazing equipment, and I think it was a good place to build up my career and pursue my future goals.
What inspired you to choose chemistry as your field of work?
I first joined chemistry because of chemical engineering, which can have a very wide range of opportunities—such as in drugs, cosmetics, and fuels. When I decided to move more into materials, it was because I was interested in building new things that could be sustainable, environmentally friendly, and maybe even cheaper. This is why I chose to go into CO₂ reduction, where we can take CO₂ from the air and transform it into something useful.
What are your specific research areas?
Right now, I have mainly been working with electrochemistry and automation, but I also have skills in materials science and chemical engineering.
Are there any challenges you have encountered during your research, and how did you overcome them?
I became pregnant in 2022, which was lovely, but adapting my research into a safe environment during pregnancy and lactation was both supported and challenging. There were reactions and parts of the research that I wanted to do but had to postpone, which led to delays and not being able to pursue certain areas.
What has been your biggest achievement during your career in chemistry and how did it make you feel?
I think moving between places has been a big achievement, as it involved changing groups and areas and chatting with people from different backgrounds and learning how to communicate. I have gained lots of transferable skills.
How important is working in a diverse and inclusive environment for you and why?
I think it's very important, mainly because when you work with people from different cultures and backgrounds, you get to learn a lot more due to all the different skills that everyone brings. It's also good to feel that you belong to a group or university, rather than feeling like an outsider because of your nationality or background. Having support from the group when I was going through pregnancy was valuable and important. We all go through different stages in life, and being able to accommodate and support each other is important for people to have a happy and successful career.
How would you describe the current culture of inclusion within the chemistry department at UoL?
I think it's good. There is lots of support for mums and parents. There are lots of members from the LGBTQ+ community, and I’ve also met people from many different nationalities. In general, they are doing a good job.
Is there any advice you would offer to someone who is wanting to pursue a career in chemistry?
Not being afraid to travel and move around. I have been to Canada, France, i was in the Netherlands for a little while and then came to the Uk. Even if it is just moving from one city to another. It's also very important to like your subject as there is so many different areas in chemistry. Dont be afraid to talk to people, ask for help and collaborate.
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