Profile: Stephanie Edwards

Programme: PhD
Started: October 2014
Previous study: University of Liverpool, BSc (Hons): Chemistry with a year in Industry

Personal View

I am working in the Rannard research group for my PhD where my research is focussed on polymeric systems for novel nanoemulsions, targetting drug delivery.

During my undergraduate degree I undertook a year in industry placement at Reckitt Benckiser, where I worked on cosmetic emulsion formulations. My placement inspired me into research as I was able to be at the forefront of scientific innovation and its continual need for technological development to stay ahead of consumer needs.

The Chemistry department at the University of Liverpool is ranked 1st in the UK for 4* and 3* research (world leading and internationally excellent respectively). This is testament to the outstanding facilities available at the department. It is home to the Centre of Materials Discovery which is an industry/academic collaboration, which is being further expanded into the Materials Innovation Factory due to open in 2016. As well as this there is the Stephenson Institute of Renewable Energy focussing on research into areas of science which have future societal impact, highlighting the varied and cutting edge research displayed at the University.

This year I have the opportunity to attend two international conferences with my research group – the European Polymer Federation conference in Dresden, Germany as well as the American Chemical Society conference in Boston, USA.

One part of my PhD that I very much enjoy is that I am able to demonstrate to undergraduate students during laboratory sessions and module workshops. It is gratifying to provide a support system to the students from an early stage in their university education as well as allowing myself to continue to grow in a teaching capacity.

I chose to come to Liverpool as the city is vibrant, engaging and culturally diverse. There is an eclectic mix of things to do within the city from the museums, art galleries and cathedrals to the music scene, theatres and never ending supply of independent restaurants and bars. Liverpool is a fantastic place to live, with the University being central to all the city has to offer.