Reducing carbon emissions
A Loughborough chemistry graduate is making reductions in carbon emissions possible with her research into hydrogen energy for mobile devices. Studying chemistry was the start of her journey.
A university degree can often inspire a passionate interest that will set you on a path of discovery. For our Loughborough chemistry students this can involve research into vital areas such as health and medicine, crime detection, and renewable energy solutions.
For Chemistry MChem graduate Lizzie Ashton, her final year project was a real source of inspiration.
particularly enjoyed my research project during my master’s year, where I investigated graphene as the electrode material in supercapacitors (fast charging and discharging batteries). I was passionate to continue a career in renewable energy, especially since there is a worldwide focus to reduce carbon emissions, with many countries (including the UK) setting net zero targets for 2050. I wanted to know that the work and research I would be doing would make an impact towards cleaner energy solutions.
Solving environmental challenges
Lizzie pursued a PhD after completing her Chemistry degree. Her research explores the use of hydrogen gas in fuel cells to create renewable electricity – with the only waste product being water. She explains:
At the moment, hydrogen gas is stored in large and very heavy gas cylinders, under very high pressures. My research looks at reducing the size and weight of hydrogen storage so that hydrogen can be used to create energy for mobile devices – such as portable electronics, automotives, and drones.
For Lizzie, knowing that her research could have a positive impact on the environment gives her a real motivation to continue pushing boundaries and achieving results.
It lets you know your research is important and worthwhile when you see the real-life application of your work.
Lizzie knew chemistry was the degree for her quite early on:
I enjoyed the subject at A level. I found it interesting and always wanted to understand things further, to learn how the world worked. I enjoyed maths, sciences, and practical work, and chemistry gave me the option to combine them all. Also, I knew chemistry could open up a wide range of possibilities, so my career options wouldn’t be limited!
She admits that the initial transition to university life can be daunting:
It was a lot different to my home life, coming from a small town where our school and sixth form had only one small laboratory classroom. We hardly did any practical work at school and college, so when I first entered the chemistry laboratories, I was overwhelmed by all the high-tech equipment, but straight away the lab technicians, supporting PhD demonstrators, and the teaching academics made the laboratory classes a comfortable environment. From the first year we got hands-on experience in the labs and I quickly built my skills.
A bright future
After graduating with an MChem in Chemistry, Lizzie knew she wanted to continue her research into cleaner energy solutions. A PhD at Loughborough University gave her the opportunity to do so, while providing opportunities to support teaching and grow professionally.
I applied for a range of jobs but the one that took my interest was a PhD position in hydrogen storage and delivery for use in fuel cell applications. The PhD position was in the familiar Loughborough Department of Chemistry, with a very knowledgeable supervisor (Professor Sandie Dann) where I knew I would receive the support I required to be successful in the role. I was attracted to the idea of attending conferences around the world and the challenge of presenting my own novel research. I also wanted to work in a research group, where I could help support masters’ students and demonstrate to students in undergraduate labs.
Join the Loughborough family
Lizzie knows that she wants to continue working in her current field and looks forward to future opportunities in academia or industry. But she looks back on her time as a Loughborough University undergraduate fondly:
I loved my time as an undergrad! I learnt a massive amount - not only about chemistry but about people, different peoples’ backgrounds, and their life experiences. I met many lifelong friends during my undergraduate degree and, also, took part in other activities outside of chemistry, such as dance, football, netball etc.
The highlight was undoubtably meeting and making lifelong friends. On the first day of lectures, I met friends that I am still close friends with. We have been on many nights out together, trips and holidays, creating ever lasting memories. The first person I was partnered with during laboratory classes, I was bridesmaid at her wedding seven years later!
