Henni-Karoliina graduated in 2018 from our MChem Chemistry with Drug Discovery course. Here she tells us how her experience at Strathclyde has helped her after graduating.
What was your first job after graduation?
I moved to Germany to do my PhD in Medicinal Chemistry for which I was awarded the Kekulé Fellowship by the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI). My research at Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) is focusing on novel anti-infectives.
Where has that led you/what do you do now?
In addition to my PhD, I am working as a part-time scientific collaborator at Roche EXPERIO school laboratory in Switzerland, where I supervise school classes and other visitors in our laboratory and design new workshops. I very much enjoy transferring the excitement of science to younger generations by engaging in teaching.
How did your course and time in the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry prepare you for the world of work?
During my industrial placement year at Roche, Switzerland, I was able to put all the learnings into practise and it helped me to take the first step as a scientist. The connections created during the placement year enabled me to build the network for my current positions.
What did you enjoy most about your course and time at University?
Friendliness of the peers and professors - I always felt welcomed and supported as an international student. Strathclyde provides a motivating place for learning with the focus on applying the theory in practise. I also think that it is unique that the professors are always reachable for support and help.
Why did you choose to study with us?
During my high school exchange in Peebles, I passed successfully the Scottish Highers. I had always a desire to study abroad and I felt I wanted to return to Scotland for my university degree. The industrial placement year also really appealed to me, as it was something I could not have experienced back home in Finland!
Do you have any words of wisdom for our future Chemistry students and graduates?
Be ready to challenge yourself.
