Working at the newly established Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering. This project focuses on multiple research areas from novel stimuli responsive/dynamic hydrogels and nanomaterials for neuronal drug delivery purposes, strain-stiffening materials for cardiovascular applications and computational materials modeling (via Schrödinger Suite) to create new polymer systems. These projects focus on real world applications, which will be considered and taken to market. As a new institute, duties have not only focused on research based activities, but also have involved a complete lab move and setup (including IT systems), budgeting and purchasing of new lab equipment.

Developing, synthesizing and characterizing novel biomaterials for neurological applications. Particular focus on optical-stimuli responsive polymer systems for drug delivery, molecular actuators and soft robotics. Working within the Biocompatible Nanomaterials group in collaboration with the ‘Materials for Brain’ Research Training Group.

Taking on a part time Duty Manager role, I was given the responsibility of co-ordinating shifts, both opening and closing the store. This gave me the chance to designate staff members to various tasks and monitoring them to make sure they were done correctly and efficiently. The Duty Manager status also meant meetings with higher management were arranged in order to discuss promotional aspects, this lead to designing new ways in which to promote certain key performance figures within sales.