My research involves growing chains of molecules (polymers) from smaller simple molecules (monomers); these polymers can be visualised in a similar way to strings of beads. The way in which the monomers are assembled and their underlying chemistry can be controlled to impart specific properties to the resulting polymers. I design polymers that when dissolved in water modify the viscosity (thickness) of the solution whilst also introducing other tailored properties. These polymers have a wide range of applications from use in medicine to control drug delivery, to modifying drilling muds used in the oil and gas industry.
Having studied for my undergraduate degree at Loughborough, I made many friends around the University and in my department. The University has a friendly atmosphere and a great campus as well as providing many excellent services. The Department of Materials is also ranked very highly for its academic and research prowess. The culmination of these points made it the logical place to continue my studies. I enjoy my PhD for a number of reasons, mainly due to the excellent facilities around campus and in my department. There is a diverse range of research being conducted at Loughborough and consequently a wide range of academic speciality knowledge universally and in my department. This knowledge proves invaluable when undertaking a PhD.