What did you study at A-level and why did you select those subjects?
I studied Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, and English at A-level because of my strong interest in science and logical thinking. I enjoyed understanding how things work and solving problems step by step.
Subjects such as Physics and Mathematics sharpened my reasoning skills, while Chemistry and Biology helped me explore real-world scientific processes. I also chose English to improve my communication skills. Overall, these subjects matched my curiosity, enthusiasm for science, and love of logical problem-solving.
What PhD did you study?
Chemical Engineering
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I studied Chemical Engineering because of my strong interest in process chemistry, particularly in biomass transformation. The degree enabled me to understand how chemical reactions and separations are designed, scaled up, and optimised to convert renewable biomass into valuable chemicals, fuels, and materials.
I was especially motivated by applying fundamental chemistry to develop efficient, sustainable, and industrially viable processes.
What key skills did you learn at university?
University taught me a portfolio of skills, including critical thinking and research aptitude, technical and analytical skills, time management, communication (both written and oral), teamwork, and independent learning.
What jobs have you had during your career?
Soon after my PhD, I started my first job as an Assistant Professor teaching undergraduates at Miranda House, University of Delhi, India, where I enjoyed working with young minds.
I have received an award from the Ministry of Human Resource Development, India, to conduct research at the University of Saskatchewan for four months as a visiting researcher.
After returning from Canada, I received an appointment letter from Imperial College London to work as a Postdoctoral Research Associate. I then moved to the University of Liverpool as a Postdoctoral Research Associate. Later in 2023, I joined my current job role as Liverpool Digital Flow Centre Manager and Research Coordinator.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
My current job role is Hybrid Flow Centre Manager and Research Coordinator. I manage the open access facility Flow Centre in Material Innovation Factory, where I am responsible for the procurement, installation and maintenance of flow kits, training PhD students and postdoctoral researchers and providing consultancy to Industries.
As Research Coordinator, I manage a research group of Professor Anna Slater and supervise PhD and undergraduate students.
Do you have an area of research?
Flow chemistry, catalysis, biomass-based transformations and macrocycles.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
My current role is very exciting, as it involves interacting with young minds, including undergraduates, PhDs, and postdoctoral researchers, as well as working on real-world challenges for industrial projects.
I particularly enjoyed my research on making molecules in flow in a sustainable manner from renewable feedstock.
What are your top tips for working in your industry?
Patience, resilience, and hard work.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Believe in yourself, work to the best of your ability, and leave the rest to God.
Any advice you’d like to share?
Never be afraid to start again, because this time you are starting with experience.
Why are you passionate about STEM?
I'm passionate about STEM because I enjoy solving problems and using science to make the world more sustainable. It is exciting to learn new things and turn ideas into real solutions that help people and the environment.
More resources:
Keep up to date with Firdaus on LinkedIn and her University of Liverpool staff profile