The University of Sheffield
Department of Chemistry

Graduate Profiles

Rising Stars

Many of our graduates go on to jobs in a wide variety of careers and a small selection is shown below. If you would like to be added to this list, then send us a brief outline of what you´re doing and the company that you are working at. Remember to send us a picture of yourself too. You can send all of the information electronically to the e-mail address below:


   
Nick Tompkinson
Nick Tomkinson
 BSc 1989-1992. PhD 1992-1996 with Drs D. Neville Jones and Jim Anderson

I chose to study in Sheffield because of the relaxed nature of the staff and the enthusiasm for science during my UCAS visit and made the city my home for the next 6 years. I didn’t appreciate the quality of the teaching the at the time, I just assumed it was normal. In hindsight, it was the high standard of this that has allowed me to pursue my research career and for that I am eternally grateful.
After leaving Sheffield in 1996 I went to work in GlaxoSmithKline, North Carolina for 3 years as a medicinal chemist, before returning to Cardiff University in 1999 to start my independent research career.
Rob Grace
Rob Grace
 MChem with Study in Australia 2007

After four years of studying chemistry at Sheffield I joined BP; one of the worlds largest oil companies. Despite focussing my undergraduate studies on organic synthesis, I moved into the field of fuel and engine oils and felt confident to do so.
Throughout out my undergrad studies I chose organic chemistry modules due to the enthusiasm of the lecturers and also because the world of academia was an interesting prospect. Although I hadn’t realised it at the time, the Department offered excellent preparation for recruitment and employment. I developed a well written CV; practiced presenting on numerous occasions; had a good standard of reporting and was confident working in the lab. These could have easily been overlooked or neglected, if it had not been for the backing of the staff in the Department.
The opportunity to study in Australia developed my independence and self confidence; probably the biggest benefit of my time in Sheffield. My current role depends on this confidence when negotiating with, and presenting to, management at various level throughout BP.

chemistry-admissions@sheffield.ac.uk