What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
I took A-levels in Chemistry, Physics, and Biology with an AS-level in Maths. I was interested in science from an early age, and these were the subjects I also did best in. I chose to take subjects that I was good at, found interesting, and enjoyed studying.
What degree/PhD did you study?
I completed a BSc Major in Chemistry at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. I then went on to get my PhD in Chemistry from Durham University.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I enjoyed studying sciences at A-Level and knew I wanted to continue to study science. I didn’t have to choose which subject I majored in until my second year of university and so I got to study a bit of each, as well as some other interesting electives. At university, chemistry goes beyond what you learn in sixth form to encompass a broad range of topics. I particularly enjoyed learning about analytical, solid state, and materials chemistry.
What jobs have you had during your career?
After completing my PhD, I became a Senior Research Associate at Lancaster University and during this position, I was a Faraday Institution Research Fellow working on the FutureCat project – which aims to develop future cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
Currently, I am a Lecturer in Engineering at the University of Liverpool. My position focuses on teaching, outreach, and inclusion within engineering. I really enjoy the opportunity to teach others and share my interest and enthusiasm for the subject. One of the things that drew me to this position was how it combined teaching and scholarship with a focus on outreach and inclusion, as this is something I’m really passionate about. Each day can be really different from the next – there are lots of fun and interesting opportunities to get involved with.
Do you have an area of expertise / research?
As a researcher, my expertise is in using solid-state NMR spectroscopy, alongside other complementary techniques, to characterise the local structure of materials and probe ion mobility. During my research, I studied a range of materials with a particular focus on battery materials. Since moving to Liverpool, my focus has shifted to outreach and inclusion in engineering. I hope to inspire the next generation of engineers (and scientists) and promote an inclusive culture that is welcoming to all - particularly underrepresented groups.
What are your top tips for working in your industry/sector?
Where possible, take the opportunity to work on projects that you're interested in or passionate about. Remember to celebrate your successes - even the small ones.
Why are you passionate about your subject / career / research / STEMM?
Science and engineering give you an opportunity to make an impact on the world – whether this is by discovering how something works, inventing something new, or influencing policy. Something that I enjoy about science and engineering is how it brings together an interest in understanding the world around us and coming up with creative solutions to the world’s challenges. This is usually a group effort where you get to collaborate with a range of people from different disciplines, backgrounds, and locations. Not only have I had the opportunity to work on innovative research, STEMM has enabled me to travel to some amazing places, use some incredible instruments and facilities, and meet a lot of inspirational people.
Find out more about Abby and keep up to date with her work here.