Tell us a little about yourself
I have worked at the University of Cumbria since March 2018. I was looking for a role where I could use my knowledge of and enthusiasm for chemistry, so teaching in higher education appealed to me.
What’s your industry background
This was my first role teaching in academia. After completing a PhD in Chemistry, I have held a variety of roles in which I have used my enthusiasm for science and environmental protection.
I have worked in roles producing energy efficiency update reports on housing stock for government agencies, teaching chemistry and science within a secondary school, carrying out scientific research into fuel cell and battery materials, helping to ensure intellectual property is properly protected and exploited in a science research company and developing a schools outreach programme for a university engineering department.
What might surprise people to learn about you?
I have obtained grade 8 in singing!
What modules do you teach?
On the BSc (Hons) Applied Chemistry Top-Up programme I am currently module lead for two modules on the programme these are Advanced Analytical Applications and Chemistry in the Environment-Industry.
In Advanced Analytical Applications my favourite part of the module is working with students to help build their skills in identifying and critically evaluating suitable analytical instruments for particular scenarios.
In Chemistry in the Environment – Industry my favourite part of the module is facilitating students to learn about environmental topics that are of interest to them and relevant to their professional working life.
What’s your favourite thing about teaching at Cumbria?
I enjoy teaching at the University of Cumbria as it has allowed me to meet students and external professionals working within industry, allowing my knowledge of industry to stay relevant and up-to-date. The campus is also located in Cumbria, allowing me to live in the county and enjoy the wonderful surrounding countryside.
What makes your course different?
Most of the students who study on this course are also working within industrial roles that are relevant to the course, this allows for them to bring their knowledge of their industry to the classroom allowing for sharing experience and learning from others.
We are also lucky to have links with industry and have professionals who are able to come in to share their experience relevant to the learning taking place or to talk to students about their learning, giving an industry as well as an academic viewpoint on the topics covered.
What advice would you give to students considering studying on this course?
If you have a foundation degree, HND or similar qualification in Chemistry or Applied Chemistry, the BSc (Hons) Applied Chemistry Top-Up is a great way to gain a full BSc qualification. The course is focussed on applied chemistry and therefore can be great for developing relevant skills useful for employment both in the scientific and other sectors.
Visit our Applied Chemistry (Top-up) course to find out more.