What is your impression of the Chemical Synthesis portfolio of PhD projects?

There is such a wide range of projects from all aspects of organic and inorganic chemistry that you feel you can choose the area that you find most interesting. The projects often overlap with other disciplines, so you are guaranteed to develop skills outside of your comfort zone. I was really surprised at how different each project was and how engaged I was in projects that I wasn't previously interested in!

What do you particularly enjoy about TATE?

I enjoy the lectures and problem sessions that go along with TATE as they really help to broaden your knowledge of more specialised subjects that you may not have covered at undergraduate level. It's a really good way to learn and gain confidence at tackling unseen problems. Additionally, the rotations are designed to give you experience of the technological aspects of chemistry, so you get lots of hands on experience using some really cool equipment.

How have you found the automation and A.I. aspects of the course?

I have really enjoyed these. They were initially challenging as it's a whole new area that I had not previously experienced, but there was lots of support to help you learn and it was really interesting to see how automation and AI can be applied to chemistry in ways that you wouldn't have thought of. With Industrial interest in automation growing rapidly, these modules really do allow you to advance your career.

What would you tell a prospective PhD student considering TECS?

If you are sure that you'd like a PhD in synthetic chemistry but are undecided in exactly which area interests you, the TECS CDT is perfect. It can really help you discover aspects of chemistry that you weren't aware of before. It will also allow you to develop your lab skills and experience before you start you PhD, so you can tackle the project that you want with all the new skills you learn.