What will you be speaking about at CHEMUK, and why is this topic important right now?

At CHEMUK, I’ll be speaking about the career options available to chemistry graduates other then lab-based roles and opportunities in academia. I’ll talk about my own experience as a graduate and the pathway I took to become a regulatory consultant.

This topic is important right now as whilst the chemical industry continues to be a major employer and contributor to the global market, graduates are often unaware of the role that regulation plays. I hope to discuss ways we can promote a career in chemistry, beyond the lab.

Where do you see the main opportunities for innovation or growth in the sector?

As we, as a population, learn more about the chemicals we use in our everyday lives, focus has shifted towards finding more sustainable solutions. With more news outlets and articles reporting on the challenges faced by the chemical industry, our future workforce needs to be prepared not only with solutions, but consideration of the footprint we’ll leave behind for generations to come.

Future chemists, and scientists alike, will need to create innovative solutions to address the concerns of today’s society. Regulation and sustainable practices will only gain momentum as we recognise their value in safeguarding both ourselves and the environment.

What is one practical insight or takeaway you hope CHEMUK visitors will gain from your session?

I hope to inspire graduates to look beyond the lab when searching for a career and recognise the wide range of career opportunities as STEM background presents. As someone who learned a lot on the job, I’d love for employers and education institutions to understand how we can raise the profile of graduate careers in chemistry.

If you could fly to any country tomorrow, where would you go and why?

As a keen explorer, I’d love to travel more of Africa. I want to visit Nambia and travel along the coast, taking in the amazing scenery on the dunes and maybe even sandboard!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
When I was nervous to start university and make friends in a new city, my dad told me to just by myself. That way, any connections I made would be authentic, and I’d know that my friends enjoyed my company and liked me for who I am, rather than who I thought they wanted me to be.

What’s one thing you’re passionate about outside of work?

I’m really passionate about travelling. I’ve recently taken myself on some solo trips around Europe and have even travelled to southern Africa! I loved seeing new places and immersing myself in new cultures, particularly the local food.

If you could switch lives with someone for a day, who would it be?

I’d switch places with Claudia Winkleman, but when they were filming Celebrity traitors, just so I could interact with everyone and host the challenges!