Student profiles
Lisa Reid (current second year PhD in Chemistry)
'My undergraduate course in Chemistry in Forensic Analysis enabled me not only to learn the theory of techniques used in criminal detection, but also to gain first hand experience in using them. Classes with experienced Forensic scientists, as well as field trips and mock crime scenes, make this a course that any CSI would be envious of! I am now carrying out a PhD at Reading, in collaboration with the Northamptonshire police, and I am putting my knowledge of both Chemistry and Forensic Science to good use. In my PhD I am analysing gun shot residue and the etching of finger prints onto metal surfaces.'
Dr Nicola Goldberg
MChem Environmental Chemistry 2000 then PhD 2004, both at Reading. Now Portfolio Manager in the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
'I graduated with a degree in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Reading in 2000. I very much enjoyed my time there and I felt it gave me the confidence to continue with a career in science. It was very hard work but the chemistry department always had a friendly and positive atmosphere which made a big difference. I went on to do a PhD within the same department before going on to a postdoctoral research position at the University of Cincinnati in the United States. I am currently a Portfolio Manager at the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). We are the main UK funding body for University research in engineering and the physical sciences. The best part of my job is that it allows me to still be involved with science and to use the knowledge I learnt during my time at Reading but to develop skills in other areas. The job is very varied ranging from presentations at conferences to organising workshops to developing strategy in new research areas. I have good memories of my time at Reading and I made many good friends.'
Samantha Atkinson
MChem and PhD from Reading, now inspector for the Good Laboratory Practice Monitoring Authority.
'Hi, I'm Samantha Atkinson and I work for the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which is an Executive Agency of the Department of Health. I am a Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) Inspector for the UK GLP Monitoring Authority (GLPMA). The GLPMA is within the Inspection and Standards Division of the Agency.
On completing my PhD in 2001, I started my career with a small agrochemical contract research organisation in North Ascot, called CEM Analytical Services Ltd. (CEMAS). I started as an analyst and quickly progressed to Study Director and Team Leader. I am in no doubt that my time at Reading played a part in my quick progression. I then followed my husband to Leeds where he had secured a post at the University of Leeds. I subsequently found a more diverse role at York Bioanalytical Solutions, again working as a study director, but managing a number of studies for one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. It was only about 18 months after I had accepted this role that I applied for my current job in the UK GLPMA… During my 7 years at Reading I met some of my closest friends, many of whom I am still in contact with. I was lucky to have such a strong group of friends to share the good and the bad times, to study with and to socialise with. I developed a lot during my time at Reading, and so too did the Chemistry Department with a massive refurbishment of the laboratories and lecture theatres. Staff and students seemed to come and go, but the passion for science always remained…. I hope that your time at Reading is as enjoyable and rewarding as my time and that you go on to have great success in your chosen career.'