How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde? 

Having already completed my BSc at Strathclyde, I knew first-hand what a great institution it is. I had an excellent academic experience and really valued the supportive learning environment. I also loved living and studying in the heart of Glasgow. After committing five years of my life to Strathclyde, I look back on that time with real fondness, both for the education I received and the memories I made along the way.

What specialist knowledge/professional skills did you develop whilst studying the course?

Throughout the course, I developed a strong foundation in theoretical biotechnology through a diverse range of modules delivered in collaboration with multiple universities and industrial partners. Of all the modules, bioprocessing was my favourite. This module provided valuable insight into all stages of a bioprocess, with lectures delivered by both academic and industrial experts. The topics covered ranged from strain engineering and the selection of bioreactor systems to downstream processing and the fundamental sustainability and economic considerations. Furthermore, a key highlight of the course was the summer placement, which was extremely beneficial in applying this knowledge in a real-world setting. Combining advanced technical training with multidisciplinary collaboration helped me build strong professional skills, including problem-solving, communication, and the ability to work effectively across different scientific disciplines.

What have you been up to since graduating from your course?

Since graduating, I’ve been actively exploring my next steps, considering both PhD opportunities and roles in industrial biotechnology. I’m carefully evaluating options that will allow me to continue developing my skills and build on the strong foundation I gained during the course.

What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?

My ambition is to contribute to the biotechnology industry in Scotland, ideally working closely with organisations such as IBioIC, while also addressing wider global challenges, including sustainability, climate change, and pollution. I’m particularly interested in developing solutions that align with circular economy principles with a positive environmental impact. My time at Strathclyde, and especially on this course, really nurtured this mindset by combining industrially focused training with a strong emphasis on sustainable innovation, helping to shape both my career goals and my values as a scientist.