What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
Physics, Maths, Further Maths & Chemistry. I picked these subjects because I always enjoyed science and maths and wanted to keep my options open!
What degree/PhD did you study?
Undergraduate degree, Physics MPhys (4 years) then a Postgraduate degree, Chemistry PhD (3.5 years).
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
Because I really enjoyed applied maths, and also because I thought a Physics degree would help me get a job! I then decided to choose Chemistry for my PhD as I knew I wanted to stay in research, but felt I wanted something a bit more hands on that would directly contribute to solving big problems (like climate change) - now I discover new materials to improve solar panels!
What jobs have you had during your career?
Earlier this year I spent three months on a UKRI Science Policy Internship working at the UK Climate Change Committee (CCC), who advise the UK Government on meeting their legally binding Net Zero targets. It was an incredible experience, and I had the opportunity to work at the forefront of climate policy and apply my data analysis skills to a variety of different topics, from developing UK hydrogen networks to the economics of battery-electric planes.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I'm currently a Chemistry PhD student - the best thing about my job is that it allows me to make new materials that have never been made before! Understanding their structure and properties can be challenging, but it's incredibly rewarding to discover what they can do.
Do you have an area of expertise / research?
Solid State Chemistry; Inorganic Chemistry; Energy Materials; Mixed Anion Chemistry.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
While I was an undergraduate, and during the COVID-19 lockdown, I started a podcast called The Liverpool Scientific, with the aim of introducing the fascinating research happening at the University of Liverpool to a wider audience. Through this project, I met so many incredible academics working at the university and enjoyed really interesting and thought-provoking conversations. I recorded, edited and produced the podcast myself, so it's been a really big achievement for me!
What are your top tips for working in your industry/sector?
If you are a PhD student but think you might want to move beyond academia after graduation, I would highly recommend taking every opportunity / internship / extra course offered, especially if they are different from your subject area. It's really important to diversify your skillset beyond your PhD research, and make important professional connections too! Completing an internship in science policy was a game-changer for me in a variety of ways, as well as being a nice break from working in the lab Monday to Friday!
What is the best piece of advice you have been given? and any advice you'd like to share?
When it comes to big (and sometimes scary) opportunities - just go for it! if it scares you a bit then it's definitely worth doing!
Why are you passionate about your subject / career / research / STEMM?
I'm passionate about pursuing a career in science policy I want to use my STEM background to develop effective climate policy and help drive positive change.
Find out more about Cara, and keep up to date with her work on LinkedIn.