Iain Tinkler MChem Chemistry with research project abroad, 2016

Undergraduate student

During my fourth year, I worked at Chemtura Organometallics GmbH in Germany. I helped to develop and optimise the synthesis of two compounds used in the production of plastics. Ultimately, the research that I completed whilst in Germany contributed to the expansion of Chemtura’s product portfolio.

There is no one thing that is the best aspect of being a Southampton Chemistry student. Everything just comes together to form a great experience. Some of the things which contribute to this are;

• The choice – the wide range of option modules available, including several outside of chemistry
• The place – the University campus is beautiful, with loads of green space
• The people – both staff and students are incredibly friendly and willing to help
• The range of programmes – allows you to shape your degree in the way that best suits you

The aspect of my course that I enjoyed the most was working in a research group with Professor Gill Reid. This gave me the freedom to pursue a research topic of interest to me and contribute towards a paper which is due to be published some-time during 2016. The teaching staff in Southampton Chemistry are friendly, approachable and enthusiastic. All of the staff are at the top of their respective fields, so you can be sure that you’re getting a top-class education. Chemistry operates an open-door policy, so students are able to just pop-in to see staff.

During my fourth year, I worked at Chemtura Organometallics GmbH in Germany. I helped to develop and optimise the synthesis of two compounds used in the production of plastics. Not only did this give me the chance to develop my practical skills, working with challenging chemical reagents, but it gave me the opportunity to learn about the differences between academic research, and industry based research. Ultimately, the research that I completed whilst in Germany contributed to the expansion of Chemtura’s product portfolio.

During my first year at Southampton, I was awarded the Year One Chemistry Scholar which is awarded to students with exam results in the top ten in the year. I was shortlisted in the Academic Representative Awards as Academic Representative of the Year for my role as Chemistry Academic President during 2014/15. My team and I were also shortlisted in the Academic Representative Awards as Team of the Year for our roles in representing chemistry students to the department and the university through the Staff Student Liaison Committee. Finally, I was Highly Commended in the Excellence in Volunteering Awards for my work as an assistant Cub Scout Leader with the 14th Highfield Scouts.

After I graduate, I will be beginning the Teach First Leadership Development Programme, which aims to put top graduates into schools where they are most needed in order to achieve their mission of ending educational inequality.

*Course formerly titled MChem Chemistry with six month placement