After completing an undergraduate degree in Chemistry (MChem) here at Strathclyde, Fraser has chosen to continue his journey with us now as a PhD student. Fraser is researching perovskite solar cells. Here he tells us about his experience at Strathclyde...
What did you enjoy most about your course and time at University?
The course allowed me to learn basic laboratory skills and also to improve the skills learned in order to effectively work in a research lab.
The industrial placement year was invaluable as it allowed me to grow in confidence and also improved upon my understanding of chemistry both in the real world and in research.
The final year project was actually the thing that made me want to continue in research and do a PhD as I got so involved in the project that I wanted to see it through and help to contribute more to the field.
All the staff members in the department from the lab technicians, the lecturers, the store staff and the office staff were all friendly and approachable and made me feel at home within the department. They made me realise that chemistry really does play an important role in the world and that I wanted to contribute my part to it.
What did you enjoy most about your course and time at University?
The best part of the course hands down was the industrial placement year, this year made me grow as a chemist. I did my placement in the department meaning that I learned how effective research is in driving innovation for the modern world.
Why did you choose to study with us?
Strathclyde has always had a reputation for being a pioneering institution for science and chemistry, in particular, I wanted to learn chemistry that was relevant and at the forefront of research.
Strathclyde also offered an industrial placement year in industry which not many other universities offered and I felt that this year would be invaluable to me, which it was.
Do you have any words of wisdom for our future Chemistry students and graduates?
Chemistry at Strathclyde and the industrial placement year really will help you to improve your basic skills be it for industry or research, you will leave with a better understanding of what chemistry is going on out in the world.
