Beatrice Browning

Student

Beatrice is doing a PhD in lithium ion battery recycling and up-cycling with Dr Phoebe Allan as part of the Faraday Institution ReLiB project.
Aston Webb building surrounded by foliage

Why did you originally apply to do PhD Chemistry at Birmingham?

I applied to this course as I really enjoyed my masters project and thought starting a PhD was the obvious next step.

What do you think are the best points of PhD Chemistry?

The best points of my course are the training, the flexibility, and the transferrable skills I have gained.

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

The best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham is the support I received from my department– I studied an undergraduate degree in chemistry here, and absolutely loved the course as everyone was really approachable.

What’s your highlight of your time at the University?

The highlight of my time here has been the opportunity to travel whilst learning; last summer I had the opportunity to run some experiments at the Argonne National Laboratory in Chicago which was awesome!

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying PhD Chemistry?

I would advise students considering a PhD in chemistry to choose a research topic that you are really excited about and interested in, and to choose a supervisor that will manage you in a way that works for you. It is so important to have a good relationship with those who you rely on for support– a PhD requires lots of this!

Is there anything extra students thinking about studying PhD Chemistry should know?

If you really enjoyed your masters project and want to continue with research – a PhD is the perfect option.