Postdoctoral researchers
Dr Carlo Andrea Mattei (2021-2022)
Carlo Andrea previously came to Manchester as a visiting PhD student. He has found the group environment and chemistry quite amusing and returned to the organometallic chemistry of the f-block as an ERC-sponsored PDRA.
He can be found hiking on the mountains or just roaming around lost in his thoughts. He is also endlessly attempting to catch up with a discreetly long to-do list that just seems to keep growing.
He can be found hiking on the mountains or just roaming around lost in his thoughts. He is also endlessly attempting to catch up with a discreetly long to-do list that just seems to keep growing.
Dr Ben Reant (2017-2021 PhD, PDRA 2021)
Ben 'Chemdraw expert' Reant hails from the "jewel of the potteries" Stoke-on-Trent. He did a joint PhD project with Dave and Steve Liddle on actinide-silanides before starting his postdoc. He previously worked in the Mills group for his final year MChem research project on the reactivity of low oxidation state lanthanide complexes.
Ben was the President of ChemSoc at Manchester as an undergrad and was a pairs figure skater for seven years, having been inspired by "Dancing on Ice". He pretends to play sports like hockey and dodgeball - but like The Dude, Walter and Donny his main love is bowling. He is also completely addicted to cheese and sugar, often getting his cheese fix from the music he listens to.
Ben is notorious within the group for his love of all things Chemdraw. When he finished his PDRA with the group he moved to the group of Dr Meera Mehta as a PDRA.
Contact: 5.52-5.53 School of Chemistry, benjamin.reant@manchester.ac.uk
Ben was the President of ChemSoc at Manchester as an undergrad and was a pairs figure skater for seven years, having been inspired by "Dancing on Ice". He pretends to play sports like hockey and dodgeball - but like The Dude, Walter and Donny his main love is bowling. He is also completely addicted to cheese and sugar, often getting his cheese fix from the music he listens to.
Ben is notorious within the group for his love of all things Chemdraw. When he finished his PDRA with the group he moved to the group of Dr Meera Mehta as a PDRA.
Contact: 5.52-5.53 School of Chemistry, benjamin.reant@manchester.ac.uk
Dr Peter Evans (2018 - 2020)
Peter is from “The North” and he did his undergraduate degree and PhD at Newcastle University with Dr Keith Izod on low oxidation group 14 chemistry using bulky phosphide ligands.
He was excited to have moved as far south as Manchester and has had all the necessary jabs to survive life in the Mancunian tropics. He has now moved to the exotic climes of West London.
He enjoys climbing and often demonstrates that elegance is optional. In the end, gravity always wins. He has also built two quadrocopters from scratch and then repaired them from catastrophic crashes.
He was excited to have moved as far south as Manchester and has had all the necessary jabs to survive life in the Mancunian tropics. He has now moved to the exotic climes of West London.
He enjoys climbing and often demonstrates that elegance is optional. In the end, gravity always wins. He has also built two quadrocopters from scratch and then repaired them from catastrophic crashes.
Dr Philip Cobb (2019 -2020)
Philip spent one year with the Mills group on an ERC-funded project to synthesise f-element complexes with precise geometries. He now works in the nuclear industry.
Philip was awarded his MSci (Hons) in 2014 from Nottingham University, with his final year honours project was organosulfur chemistry supervised by Prof. Jonathan McMaster. He gained his PhD in 2018 from the University of Manchester after conducting a research project on the chemistry of uranyl chemistry under the supervision of Prof. Steve Liddle. He then spent the a year working on actinide-ligand multiple bonds as a PDRA in the Liddle group.
When not in the lab Philip enjoys spending his time playing board games, as well as designing and building Lego models.
Philip was awarded his MSci (Hons) in 2014 from Nottingham University, with his final year honours project was organosulfur chemistry supervised by Prof. Jonathan McMaster. He gained his PhD in 2018 from the University of Manchester after conducting a research project on the chemistry of uranyl chemistry under the supervision of Prof. Steve Liddle. He then spent the a year working on actinide-ligand multiple bonds as a PDRA in the Liddle group.
When not in the lab Philip enjoys spending his time playing board games, as well as designing and building Lego models.
Dr Marcus Giansiracusa (2019 - 2020)
Marcus did his MSc at the University of Melbourne as part of the Boskovic and Soncini research groups and decided to travel for his PhD. He ended up on the complete other side of the world in Manchester with Prof Richard Winpenny and Dr Nicholas Chilton studying lanthanide interactions and single-molecule magnets.
After getting used to life in Europe, he decided to stay on in Manchester. He loves the active lifestyle on campus, setting up the Anything but Research activity fund to ensure PhD students maintain a healthy work life balance. He is most likely to be found playing squash or volleyball in the weeks when he is not travelling.
After getting used to life in Europe, he decided to stay on in Manchester. He loves the active lifestyle on campus, setting up the Anything but Research activity fund to ensure PhD students maintain a healthy work life balance. He is most likely to be found playing squash or volleyball in the weeks when he is not travelling.
Dr Fabrizio Ortu (2014 - 2019)
Dr Fabrizio 'OR2-D2' Ortu joined the group in February 2014 as a postdoc funded by the EPSRC investigating terminal unsupported lanthanide-element multiple bonds. He is now a lecturer in chemistry at the University of Leicester.
Fabs hails from Sardinia, the "Wales of Italy" - so called because of the significant sheep population, a friendly rivalry with its noisy neighbour and amazing weather. Fabs completed his undergrad in Italy before moving to England for his PhD at The University of Nottingham under the supervision of Dr Debbie Kays, primarily investigating s-block organometallic chemistry.
Fabs is the lab-dad (a role Dave surrendered and swapped for a desk and computer...) and master of group nicknames. Apart from knowing literally everything about football, inorganic chemistry and RPGs, he is a bit dopey... Fabs has probably the most eclectic musical taste in the group and can therefore tolerate the dross which alternates between the other members laptops.
When he isn't in the lab, he can be found frequenting local establishments, stuffing his face with falafel along with Dave or on a train somewhere or other. He earns his other nickname, 'Milhouse', from his absolutely tiny beady eyes. Obviously.
Contact: http://orturesearch.com/
Fabs hails from Sardinia, the "Wales of Italy" - so called because of the significant sheep population, a friendly rivalry with its noisy neighbour and amazing weather. Fabs completed his undergrad in Italy before moving to England for his PhD at The University of Nottingham under the supervision of Dr Debbie Kays, primarily investigating s-block organometallic chemistry.
Fabs is the lab-dad (a role Dave surrendered and swapped for a desk and computer...) and master of group nicknames. Apart from knowing literally everything about football, inorganic chemistry and RPGs, he is a bit dopey... Fabs has probably the most eclectic musical taste in the group and can therefore tolerate the dross which alternates between the other members laptops.
When he isn't in the lab, he can be found frequenting local establishments, stuffing his face with falafel along with Dave or on a train somewhere or other. He earns his other nickname, 'Milhouse', from his absolutely tiny beady eyes. Obviously.
Contact: http://orturesearch.com/
Dr Ji-Dong Leng (2014 - 2016)
Dr Ji-Dong 'Donny' Leng joined the group in December 2014 as a postdoc with Prof. Richard Winpenny, funded by the International Postdoctoral Exchange Fellowship Program of China. He worked on the synthesis of low-coordinate early metal complexes and chromium rings.
Ji-Dong obtained his PhD from Sun Yat-Sen University in Guangzhou, China, under the supervision of Prof. Ming-Liang Tong, investigating the synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of 4d-4f and 4f clusters.
Ji-Dong is an avid Man Utd fan, and although he claims this is not the main reason for coming here, we are not yet entirely convinced... However, he is not a footballer and preferred to keep the beer belly away by running in the many lush green spaces Manchester has to offer.
Ji-Dong obtained his PhD from Sun Yat-Sen University in Guangzhou, China, under the supervision of Prof. Ming-Liang Tong, investigating the synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of 4d-4f and 4f clusters.
Ji-Dong is an avid Man Utd fan, and although he claims this is not the main reason for coming here, we are not yet entirely convinced... However, he is not a footballer and preferred to keep the beer belly away by running in the many lush green spaces Manchester has to offer.
PhD Students
Dr Vijay Parmar (2017-2021 PhD), PDRA 2021
Vijay is from Ashta, located in the heart of India, the central state of Madhya Pradesh. His PhD was supervised by Professor Richard WInpenny and co-supervised by Dave; his project involved the synthesis and physical/computational analysis of the magnetic properties of lanthanide aryloxides. He completed a short PDRA placement with Dave and Richard before moving to Aarhus University to work with Dr Jacob Overgaard.
Vijay is a magnetochemist by training, graduating from the Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, India.
When not working in the lab, Vijay spends his time using Photoshop for creative design, supplemented with reading, playing video games and chess, and occasional travelling.
Vijay is a magnetochemist by training, graduating from the Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, India.
When not working in the lab, Vijay spends his time using Photoshop for creative design, supplemented with reading, playing video games and chess, and occasional travelling.
Dr Jingjing Liu (2016-2019)
Jingjing 'Gimli' Liu worked in the Mills group as part of her Postgraduate Masters degree at Manchester in 2015 and returned in 2016 to undertake her PhD on the synthesis of low oxidation state f-element complexes.
Jingjing comes from Suzhou, China and graduated from Anhui Normal University. Before undertaking her Masters at Manchester she spent a year deciding on her career path. Away from the lab, Jingjing satisfies her creative spirit by cooking up culinary experiments, singing & listening to music and watching films.
Jingjing is probably the most generous person to have worked in the group so far, whether she is providing Belgian chocs, Chinese candy or authentic rice wine...!
Jingjing comes from Suzhou, China and graduated from Anhui Normal University. Before undertaking her Masters at Manchester she spent a year deciding on her career path. Away from the lab, Jingjing satisfies her creative spirit by cooking up culinary experiments, singing & listening to music and watching films.
Jingjing is probably the most generous person to have worked in the group so far, whether she is providing Belgian chocs, Chinese candy or authentic rice wine...!
Dr Hannah Nicholas (2015-2019)
Hannah 'The Money' Nicholas was supervised by Dave and co-supervised by Professor Richard WInpenny. Her EPSRC-funded DTG PhD was principally concerned with the synthesis of low coordinate transition metal complexes with interesting magnetic properties.
Hannah did her undergraduate degree at Newcastle University, carrying out her final year MChem project in the group of Dr Keith Izod. Her final year project was working with main group elements, principally synthesising boronated diphosphagermylenes.
Hannah is from God's own county of Yorkshire, therefore is essentially the enemy. Whilst she gets used to the climate on the right side of the Pennines, Hannah is looking forward to trekking the fabled 'Gin trail' of the city centre, running around delightful Hulme neighborhoods, or relaxing with a ~48 hour Netflix session. Hannah also claims to be a foodie, which means she fits right in with the the group's "Tops" all-you-can-eat philosophy...
Hannah did her undergraduate degree at Newcastle University, carrying out her final year MChem project in the group of Dr Keith Izod. Her final year project was working with main group elements, principally synthesising boronated diphosphagermylenes.
Hannah is from God's own county of Yorkshire, therefore is essentially the enemy. Whilst she gets used to the climate on the right side of the Pennines, Hannah is looking forward to trekking the fabled 'Gin trail' of the city centre, running around delightful Hulme neighborhoods, or relaxing with a ~48 hour Netflix session. Hannah also claims to be a foodie, which means she fits right in with the the group's "Tops" all-you-can-eat philosophy...
Dr Mateusz Plesniak (2014-2018)
Mateusz 'Maszyna' Plesniak was principally supervised by Professor David Procter and Co-supervised by Dave. His PhD concerned the synthesis of samarium(II) complexes and their employment in organic reactions.
Mateusz did his bachelors degree in Industrial and Engineering Chemistry followed by a Master’s degree in Bioorganic Chemistry, both at the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, Poland. After completing his studies he carried out a 6 month internship in medicinal chemistry at F. Hoffman-La Roche in Basel, Switzerland.
Mateusz was the group's resident encylopedia of organic chemistry, and thus was often consulted as soon as other group members chemistry strays from the Schlenk line. Mateusz is one for the outdoors, religiously cycling to university, braving the delightful Manchester weather, and when not in the lab he enjoys cycling, hiking and yoga.
Mateusz did his bachelors degree in Industrial and Engineering Chemistry followed by a Master’s degree in Bioorganic Chemistry, both at the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, Poland. After completing his studies he carried out a 6 month internship in medicinal chemistry at F. Hoffman-La Roche in Basel, Switzerland.
Mateusz was the group's resident encylopedia of organic chemistry, and thus was often consulted as soon as other group members chemistry strays from the Schlenk line. Mateusz is one for the outdoors, religiously cycling to university, braving the delightful Manchester weather, and when not in the lab he enjoys cycling, hiking and yoga.
Dr Conrad Goodwin (2013-2018)
,Conrad 'Zoolander' Goodwin was Dave's first fully funded PhD student funded by the EPSRC. He finished his PhD in March 2017 and stayed in the group for a one year EPSRC Doctoral Prize Fellowship. Conrad did his undergraduate degree in Chemistry (MChem, Hons) at The University of Manchester, spending his final year working for Dr Mike Ingleson, working on boron chemistry.
Conrad's research concerned the synthesis of low-coordinate and/or low-oxidation state f-element complexes to investigate the physical properties of these systems. Conrad can be found in the lab lovingly growing boulders, tending to the glovebox, and foraging for free glassware.
Conrad's past-times include cycling and going to the gym, and enjoys being the last person to leave the lab. He is also a devout vegetarian, which continues to baffle other members of the lab as he is in fact a 6'2" chunk of meat...
capgoodwin.com
Conrad's research concerned the synthesis of low-coordinate and/or low-oxidation state f-element complexes to investigate the physical properties of these systems. Conrad can be found in the lab lovingly growing boulders, tending to the glovebox, and foraging for free glassware.
Conrad's past-times include cycling and going to the gym, and enjoys being the last person to leave the lab. He is also a devout vegetarian, which continues to baffle other members of the lab as he is in fact a 6'2" chunk of meat...
capgoodwin.com
Dr Ally Formanuik (2012-2016)
Ally 'Hansel' Formanuik was funded by the Nuclear FiRST DTC, and was jointly supervised by Dave and by Dr Louise Natrajan. He did his undergraduate degree in Chemistry (MSci, Hons) at the University of Bristol (2007-2011), and then spent a year away travelling and 'finding himself' in SE Asia before moving North. Ally was the first person to start working in Dave's group, via the Nuclear FiRST DTC (a prestigious honour)...
Ally's research mainly concerned the synthesis, characterisation and reactivity of low-oxidation state actinide complexes with a view to exploring small molecule activation chemistry. Ally could usually be found slumped over his fumehood, painstakingly making batches of ligand precursor.
His uncanny resemblance to an arctic predator earns him his other nickname (Polar Bear), and in his spare time away from the lab Ally occupies himself playing 5 aside football, golf and hunting seals. He also enjoyed insulting members of the group in a discreet manner...
Ally's research mainly concerned the synthesis, characterisation and reactivity of low-oxidation state actinide complexes with a view to exploring small molecule activation chemistry. Ally could usually be found slumped over his fumehood, painstakingly making batches of ligand precursor.
His uncanny resemblance to an arctic predator earns him his other nickname (Polar Bear), and in his spare time away from the lab Ally occupies himself playing 5 aside football, golf and hunting seals. He also enjoyed insulting members of the group in a discreet manner...
Postgraduate Masters Students
Wang Ngai Chung - Summer 2022
Wang Ngai ‘Tom’ Chung comes from Hong Kong, where he finished the undergrad degree in the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Some also say it is Stress and Tension). His family found that Hong Kong is in a political unstable state, so they decided to move to its former ‘ruler’, the UK. Tom hopes that he can find a stable career in laboratories after graduation and stay in the UK with his family.
You’ll always find Tom in one of the following activities while he is not in the lab: playing video games (the most recent one is Elden Ring), playing card games (struggling on the Hearthstone and Yugioh ladder), eating or sleeping. He will sometimes play the piano terribly outside the canteen of University Place when he feels pressure. Finally, if you need any guidance on “how to NOT lose weight in two weeks”, he is going to be the best tutor you can find nearby.
You’ll always find Tom in one of the following activities while he is not in the lab: playing video games (the most recent one is Elden Ring), playing card games (struggling on the Hearthstone and Yugioh ladder), eating or sleeping. He will sometimes play the piano terribly outside the canteen of University Place when he feels pressure. Finally, if you need any guidance on “how to NOT lose weight in two weeks”, he is going to be the best tutor you can find nearby.
Banan Alawaji - Summer 2019
Banan Alawaji is from Alqassim, which is located in the middle of Saudi Arabia. She is in the group as part of her Masters degree in chemistry at the University of Manchester. Banan is working with Vijay in her project to synthesise and and analyse highly axial lanthanide aryloxide complexes.
Banan got her Bachelor's degree in chemistry in 2014. One year later, she got a job as teaching assistant at Albaha University, which is located in the south of Saudi Arabia.
Banan spends her free time shopping online, cooking or watching movies.
Banan got her Bachelor's degree in chemistry in 2014. One year later, she got a job as teaching assistant at Albaha University, which is located in the south of Saudi Arabia.
Banan spends her free time shopping online, cooking or watching movies.
Hongrui Zhang - Summer 2018
Hongrui ‘Jason’ Zhang worked with Fabs on lanthanide cyclopentadienyl complexes for his project. Jason comes from a small city in Hebei, which is only 40 kilometres away from Beijing, the capital of China. Despite this proximity to Beijing he did his undergraduate studies in Shanghai, 1300 kilometres from home, which made his parents quite sad for several months. Now he is in Manchester for his MSc, which is considerably further away from Beijing!
When not in the lab, Jason is a big basketball fan. He used to be a strong basketball player (many people cannot imagine this when they see his figure at present) and he used to play for the basketball team of School of Chemistry during his time in SJTU. His other hobbies include movies, music and online games.
When not in the lab, Jason is a big basketball fan. He used to be a strong basketball player (many people cannot imagine this when they see his figure at present) and he used to play for the basketball team of School of Chemistry during his time in SJTU. His other hobbies include movies, music and online games.
Song Wei Loo - Summer 2017
Song Wei Loo, a.k.a. Wei, hails from Penang, Malaysia - named the "Prince of Wales Island" by the British East India Company centuries ago, before it became a colony of the British Empire. Wei worked with Conrad, studying the synthesis and reactivity of low coordinate lanthanide complexes for his Postgraduate Masters degree at Manchester.
Wei did his B.Sc.(Hons) in chemistry at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Malaysia, spending his final year working for Dr Kian-Eang Neo on the preparation of bioinorganic cobalt complexes.
Wei used to savour fine whiskies and cognacs, until he decided to turn over a new leaf and "get his soul cleansed" in early January 2017. He is also an avid fan of Liverpool Football Club (often a contentious choice when living in Manchester) and states that his current location gives him the best possible view to "watch The Reds defeat the Red Devils at Old Trafford." His most famous quote is "where there's a will, there's a Wei."
Wei did his B.Sc.(Hons) in chemistry at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Malaysia, spending his final year working for Dr Kian-Eang Neo on the preparation of bioinorganic cobalt complexes.
Wei used to savour fine whiskies and cognacs, until he decided to turn over a new leaf and "get his soul cleansed" in early January 2017. He is also an avid fan of Liverpool Football Club (often a contentious choice when living in Manchester) and states that his current location gives him the best possible view to "watch The Reds defeat the Red Devils at Old Trafford." His most famous quote is "where there's a will, there's a Wei."
Pin Lyu - Summer 2016
Pin Lyu worked in the Mills group as part of her Postgraduate Masters degree at Manchester. She worked with Hannah on the synthesis of d-transition metal amide complexes.
Pin hails from Shanghai, and carried out her undergraduate degree at East China University of Science and Technology. She decided to trade in the hustle and bustle of her home city for the delights of North-West England and enjoyed exploring the UK during her Masters year.
Pin hails from Shanghai, and carried out her undergraduate degree at East China University of Science and Technology. She decided to trade in the hustle and bustle of her home city for the delights of North-West England and enjoyed exploring the UK during her Masters year.
Beatrice Hao Zhu - Summer 2014
Beatrice ' The Godfather' Hao Zhu worked in the Mills group as part of her Postgraduate Masters degree at Manchester. She is working alongside Fabs towards the synthesis of heteroatomic π-bonded lanthanide complexes.
Beatrice was born in NanJing, China, and did her undergraduate degree at AnHui University. Beatrice has a taste for the finer things in life, and is by far the most cultured person to have graced the Mills group with their presence. When she is not sipping a fine Merlot at one of Manchester's finest establishments, she can be found reciting poetry and enlightening the rest of the group (in a variety of languages...)
Beatrice was born in NanJing, China, and did her undergraduate degree at AnHui University. Beatrice has a taste for the finer things in life, and is by far the most cultured person to have graced the Mills group with their presence. When she is not sipping a fine Merlot at one of Manchester's finest establishments, she can be found reciting poetry and enlightening the rest of the group (in a variety of languages...)
Undergraduate MChem Students
Catherine Clayton (2022-23)
Catherine is a final year MChem student originally from Bristol. She is fiercely proud of her West Country origins but now considers Manchester her home, however she is yet to own an umbrella or waterproof coat despite living here for over 3 years.
Catherine is excited to be back working in the lab after completing an educational project in her third year and will be working with Jack on engineering the coordination environment of lanthanides to achieve specific magnetic properties.
When she's not studying chemistry, you'll either find her on the netball court or in the pub enjoying a pint
Catherine is excited to be back working in the lab after completing an educational project in her third year and will be working with Jack on engineering the coordination environment of lanthanides to achieve specific magnetic properties.
When she's not studying chemistry, you'll either find her on the netball court or in the pub enjoying a pint
James Whittlestone (2021-2022)
James is originally from a small town at the bottom of the Wirral known as Ellesmere Port. The town is near the city of Liverpool however not quite close enough to count, however the slight twinge in his accent may deceive you! He has been at the university of Manchester since 2017 and is finally finishing his MChem under the tutelage of Sophie (and Jack E-K sparingly) working on the field of single molecule magnets and trying to synthesise a new dysprosocenium molecule.
When not in the lab he can usually he can be found undertaking a few extracurricular activities, most notably he is currently training to take on Dave in a game of pool and “he just keeps getting better”. He also enjoys playing football, lifting heavy things and putting them back down, attempting to watch every movie in existence and mostly drinking with his pals.
Francesco Vanin (2021-2022)
Francesco was born in Treviso Italy (a small town near Venice) and moved to London in 2009. In the following years he has also lived in Istanbul and Dubai. He hopes he can continue to travel the world and hopefully do some good chemistry along the way. After studying chemistry for three years at the University of Manchester he is now doing his MChem project with Jack B. on lanthanoid and actinoid covalency.
When not in the lab you’re likely to find him making a mess in the kitchen cooking food from all over the world. You might also find him running at the park in less than optimal weather conditions (it's Manchester!) or just relaxing with a good book and a cup of coffee.
Chelsea-Ann Peart (2020-2021)
Chelsea is originally from London and completed a year in industry with Huntsman Advanced Materials, where she worked directly on the research and development of a new range of industrial methacrylate adhesives.
Chelsea is working with Corentin for her final year project in the synthesis of f-block metallocene anion complexes.
Outside of chemistry Chelsea is likely found tending to her many plants, learning useless plant facts, or searching for more plants to buy, a hobby that exploded during the various lockdowns. She also enjoys re-watching her favourite shows and for some can recite episodes word-for-word (but she is not proud of it).
Chelsea is working with Corentin for her final year project in the synthesis of f-block metallocene anion complexes.
Outside of chemistry Chelsea is likely found tending to her many plants, learning useless plant facts, or searching for more plants to buy, a hobby that exploded during the various lockdowns. She also enjoys re-watching her favourite shows and for some can recite episodes word-for-word (but she is not proud of it).
Fraser Mackintosh (2020-2021)
Fraser hails from Macclesfield, the jewel of Cheshire, and has the unfortunate pleasure of supporting Macclesfield Town. Having completed the first two years of his degree in Manchester, he explored the balmy climes of the south with an industry year in Reading. He is back on more familiar ground studying his MChem project in the group, working with Ben to synthesise some wacky complexes with uranium and silicon.
In his free time, he can usually be found with a beer in hand and some kind of sport on the TV, football and cricket being the two favourites. He also enjoys keeping fit at the gym and trains in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (when allowed).
In his free time, he can usually be found with a beer in hand and some kind of sport on the TV, football and cricket being the two favourites. He also enjoys keeping fit at the gym and trains in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (when allowed).
Liam Parkin (2019-2020)
Liam hails from Belper, which is famous for being near Derby and having a Mr Potato head statue. The family business is joinery, however his Derbyshire accent only tends to surface in his visits to his favoured establishment of ‘Spoons so he needs to keep working on that.
Liam worked with Sophie on the synthesis of dysprosocenium cations that can exhibit interesting magnetic properties.
Liam’s career in athletics has somewhat stalled (400 m, 800 m and discus gold medals and a lead weight in the swimming pool in school years 8-11) as he now focuses on chemistry, though he still keeps fit through cycling, gym visits and hiking in the Peak District. He’s a big fan of the original Star Wars trilogy and Lord of the Rings films, which is just as well as people who like the Phantom Menace are banned from the lab.
Liam worked with Sophie on the synthesis of dysprosocenium cations that can exhibit interesting magnetic properties.
Liam’s career in athletics has somewhat stalled (400 m, 800 m and discus gold medals and a lead weight in the swimming pool in school years 8-11) as he now focuses on chemistry, though he still keeps fit through cycling, gym visits and hiking in the Peak District. He’s a big fan of the original Star Wars trilogy and Lord of the Rings films, which is just as well as people who like the Phantom Menace are banned from the lab.
Laura Jarrett (2019-2020)
Laura is originally from London and completed a year in industry with RB in Hull for the 3rd year of her MChem course. A life-long West Ham United fan, Laura regularly returns to London to watch the football matches. Outside of the lab, she likes to bake - even if some of the bakes don't really go to plan.
Laura worked with Vijay for her final year project in the synthesis of highly axial lanthanide single-molecule magnets.
Laura used to be a gymnast and one of her favourite party tricks is doing the splits, but with her gym days long gone, her fitness has gone with it. Nowadays, Laura enjoys binge-watching Netflix series with her housemates.
Laura worked with Vijay for her final year project in the synthesis of highly axial lanthanide single-molecule magnets.
Laura used to be a gymnast and one of her favourite party tricks is doing the splits, but with her gym days long gone, her fitness has gone with it. Nowadays, Laura enjoys binge-watching Netflix series with her housemates.
Hing Man "Mike" Yeung (2018-2019)
"Mike" Hing Man "Melon" Yeung worked on the synthesis of lanthanide complexes with Peter for his final year MChem project.
Mike was born in Hong Kong and went to a boarding school in Dudley for his GCSEs, where he was taught by Jasper Carrott and other famous Dudleyites. Mike is a keen footballer and plays for Chemistry FC. He relaxes in the evenings watching his favourite Marvel movies and binging on Netflix.
Mike has man vs. food achievements that make him favourite for the gold medal at the annual Mills group eat-all-you-can TOPS-a-thon - his CV boasts 9 bowls of rice dishes at Pearl City Chinese restaurant and the five finger chilli death punch challenge, with only major life-changing injuries to show for it.
Mike was born in Hong Kong and went to a boarding school in Dudley for his GCSEs, where he was taught by Jasper Carrott and other famous Dudleyites. Mike is a keen footballer and plays for Chemistry FC. He relaxes in the evenings watching his favourite Marvel movies and binging on Netflix.
Mike has man vs. food achievements that make him favourite for the gold medal at the annual Mills group eat-all-you-can TOPS-a-thon - his CV boasts 9 bowls of rice dishes at Pearl City Chinese restaurant and the five finger chilli death punch challenge, with only major life-changing injuries to show for it.
Siobhan Murphy (2017-2018)
Siobhan Murphy is an MChem student working with Hannah, studying the synthesis and reactivity of lanthanide complexes in low oxidation states. Siobhan is Chesterfield born and bred, with a sense of humour as crooked as the spire.
She’s never far away from home, as the love of her life, a fat pony called Sparky, lives there with whom she used to compete for a local horseball team. Siobhan is the resident chef de partie outside the lab, cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Her specialities include dry granola, toast and (occasionally) burnt pasta. If you want any of these she does deliver.
Contact: 5.52-5.63 School of Chemistry
She’s never far away from home, as the love of her life, a fat pony called Sparky, lives there with whom she used to compete for a local horseball team. Siobhan is the resident chef de partie outside the lab, cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Her specialities include dry granola, toast and (occasionally) burnt pasta. If you want any of these she does deliver.
Contact: 5.52-5.63 School of Chemistry
Jake Cleghorn (2017-2018)
Jake Cleghorn is from Nuneaton in Shakespeare's county of Warwickshire, but since nobody knows where that is he has spent the last 3 years in Manchester explaining that he's from 'near Birmingham.'
He worked with Jingjing for his final year MChem project in the synthesis of lanthanide complexes with cyclopentadienyl-based ligands.
When not in the lab he can be found sipping on a pale ale in a pub somewhere recounting the latest ridiculous situation he found himself in. Hobbies include obsessively listening to indie music and taking pictures of animals encountered in the street to post on his deeply unpopular Instagram account. Claim to fame: once got a birthday card from R&B legend Craig David.
Contact: 5.52-5.63 School of Chemistry.
He worked with Jingjing for his final year MChem project in the synthesis of lanthanide complexes with cyclopentadienyl-based ligands.
When not in the lab he can be found sipping on a pale ale in a pub somewhere recounting the latest ridiculous situation he found himself in. Hobbies include obsessively listening to indie music and taking pictures of animals encountered in the street to post on his deeply unpopular Instagram account. Claim to fame: once got a birthday card from R&B legend Craig David.
Contact: 5.52-5.63 School of Chemistry.
Eppie Nguyen-Xuan - 2016-2017
Eppie 'Long Socks' Nguyen-Xuan worked in the Mills group for her final year MChem research project. She worked with Hannah, synthesising near-linear d-transition metal complexes to investigate their electronic structures and properties. She spent the third year of her degree at North Carolina State.
Eppie is from "Down South", as far as our Manchester-centric geographical knowledge is concerned. Her hobbies include swimming and cooking (she says that she isn't very good at baking cakes but if she wants to practice the Mills group will volunteer to help eat them). Eppie also volunteers with an East African playgrounds charity.
Outside of work Eppie can be found "shooting hoops" in the arcade and proclaims she will beat any who dare to challenge her at this mighty sport. Random fact: Eppie has kissed a baby crocodile (once).
Eppie is from "Down South", as far as our Manchester-centric geographical knowledge is concerned. Her hobbies include swimming and cooking (she says that she isn't very good at baking cakes but if she wants to practice the Mills group will volunteer to help eat them). Eppie also volunteers with an East African playgrounds charity.
Outside of work Eppie can be found "shooting hoops" in the arcade and proclaims she will beat any who dare to challenge her at this mighty sport. Random fact: Eppie has kissed a baby crocodile (once).
Gianni Vettese - 2015-2016
Gianni 'Bambino' Vettese carried out his MChem project in the Mills group working with Conrad on the reactivity of low coordinate samarium(II) complexes.
Gianni is 50% Italian and 50% Argentinian, however he is 100% not good at utilising this fact... His hobbies include playing Hockey and Football, although to minimise his runnning efforts on the pitch he likes to play the 'deep playmaker role' (Need a better beard to look like Pirlo though Gianni...).
He is often found in the lab whspering sweet nothings to his Schlenk line or humming along to the excellent music choices, and his boundless energy and enthusiasm is sometimes in contrast to a couple of the elder members of the group...
Gianni is looking to continue his adventures into chemistry following the completion of his degree, however he is looking to move over to the darkside to study environmental radiochemistry in the context of nuclear waste remediation here at Manchester.
Gianni is 50% Italian and 50% Argentinian, however he is 100% not good at utilising this fact... His hobbies include playing Hockey and Football, although to minimise his runnning efforts on the pitch he likes to play the 'deep playmaker role' (Need a better beard to look like Pirlo though Gianni...).
He is often found in the lab whspering sweet nothings to his Schlenk line or humming along to the excellent music choices, and his boundless energy and enthusiasm is sometimes in contrast to a couple of the elder members of the group...
Gianni is looking to continue his adventures into chemistry following the completion of his degree, however he is looking to move over to the darkside to study environmental radiochemistry in the context of nuclear waste remediation here at Manchester.
Dan Packer 2015-2016
Danny 'Deadpan' Packer carried out his Mchem project in the Mills group working towards the synthesis of early-lanthanide complexes with multiple bond character.
Dan spent the 3rd year of his degree in industry working at 'Infineum' in Oxfordshire, and as a consequence now has a taste for the finer things in life...however chips n' gravy are still his 'go-to'. Other group members are often quick to reply to Deadpan Dan, as his dulcet Northern tones make it hard to distinguish a general wondering from emergencies...
In his spare time, Danny likes to spend his time fishing, gymming and following his beloved Leeds-based sports teams, and together with Hannah he makes up the second half of Team Yoooorkshire, who when they get going can reight baffle others with their soft accents. Dan is currently applying to companies for graduate schemes after completion of his Masters degree.
Dan spent the 3rd year of his degree in industry working at 'Infineum' in Oxfordshire, and as a consequence now has a taste for the finer things in life...however chips n' gravy are still his 'go-to'. Other group members are often quick to reply to Deadpan Dan, as his dulcet Northern tones make it hard to distinguish a general wondering from emergencies...
In his spare time, Danny likes to spend his time fishing, gymming and following his beloved Leeds-based sports teams, and together with Hannah he makes up the second half of Team Yoooorkshire, who when they get going can reight baffle others with their soft accents. Dan is currently applying to companies for graduate schemes after completion of his Masters degree.
Matthew Burton - 2014-2015
Matthew ' Freddie' Burton undertook his MChem project in the Mills group, working towards the synthesis of heteroatomic π-bonded lanthanide complexes under the supervision of Fabs.
Matty is mad for tramplolining, and spends most of his spare time bouncing all over the North-West coaching competing and judging fellow trampoliners. Matty hails from the Wirral, and is interestingly one of the only people to recently work in the group who has an excellent taste in music...well done!
Matty is mad for tramplolining, and spends most of his spare time bouncing all over the North-West coaching competing and judging fellow trampoliners. Matty hails from the Wirral, and is interestingly one of the only people to recently work in the group who has an excellent taste in music...well done!
Alex Smith - 2014-2015
Alex 'The Shark' Smith carried out his MChem project in the Mills group, working with Conrad on exploring the effect of sterically demanding silyl-amide ligands. Alex also spent the summer of 2014 in the group, working on chiral Cp-based ligands towards the synthesis of chiral Sm(II) complexes.
In his spare time Sharky likes to practise Karate, and could kill you with his little finger (if he wasnt such a nice guy...). He is also a massive Game of Thrones nerd, and earns his nickname from the fact he is able to compete at the highest 'Mills-group level' at pool.
Alex is hoping to develop the synthetic chemistry skills he is learning in the Mills group to hopefully go on to do study for a PhD.
In his spare time Sharky likes to practise Karate, and could kill you with his little finger (if he wasnt such a nice guy...). He is also a massive Game of Thrones nerd, and earns his nickname from the fact he is able to compete at the highest 'Mills-group level' at pool.
Alex is hoping to develop the synthetic chemistry skills he is learning in the Mills group to hopefully go on to do study for a PhD.
Jonathan Fowler - 2013-14
Jonny 'The Baron' Fowler carried out his MChem project in the Mills group working with Ally & Fabs, investigating heteroatomic π-bonded lanthanide complexes with bulky-Cp ligands.
Jonny is a huge Rochdale fan, travelling home most weekends to to see 'The Dale' march up the table of whatever division they are in. Jonny took to the groups traditional 'Thursday pints' like a duck to water, and he also got the honour of characterising the first f-element crystal structure in the group. Jonny has accepted a place at The University of Leeds to study for his PhD, Good luck Jonny!
As the members of the Mills group know all too well, Jonny has an unhealthy fascination with Cp, and has been known to hide his stash is unlikely places around the lab for others to stumble upon...
Jonny is a huge Rochdale fan, travelling home most weekends to to see 'The Dale' march up the table of whatever division they are in. Jonny took to the groups traditional 'Thursday pints' like a duck to water, and he also got the honour of characterising the first f-element crystal structure in the group. Jonny has accepted a place at The University of Leeds to study for his PhD, Good luck Jonny!
As the members of the Mills group know all too well, Jonny has an unhealthy fascination with Cp, and has been known to hide his stash is unlikely places around the lab for others to stumble upon...
Kristian Joslin - 2013-14
Kristian 'Slow Hand' Joslin carried out his MChem project in the Mills group working closely with Conrad, also investigating heteroatomic π-bonded lanthanide complexes, with bulky silylamide ligands.
When not in the lab, Kris plays rugby union. Along with Jonny, Kris was a regular at 'Thursday pints', showing a canny ability to stick it out with the more hardcore Thursdaynighters. Kris is hoping to continue his wonderful adventures into Inorganic Chemistry by studying for a PhD.
When not in the lab, Kris plays rugby union. Along with Jonny, Kris was a regular at 'Thursday pints', showing a canny ability to stick it out with the more hardcore Thursdaynighters. Kris is hoping to continue his wonderful adventures into Inorganic Chemistry by studying for a PhD.
Summer / Visiting Students
Peng-Bo Jin (2022-23)
PengBo was born in a small town of XianYang, which is one of the most ancient cities in China. After undergraduate, he moved to Xi’an and to be a PhD student in the group of Yanzhen Zheng of Xi’an Jiaotong University, which involved working with lanthanacarborane single-molecule magnets. Last year, PengBo was invited to Manchester by Prof. Richard Winpenny for a one year project, where he is also working with Dave to synthesise non-traditional low oxidation state lanthanide complexes. He enjoys the chemistry here as well as the large fancy crystals.
In his childhood, PengBo was an expert in Chinese Calligraphy. He might have become an artist if he hadn’t liked chemistry so much. Outside of chemistry, PengBo is more likely to hang out and explore the great Manchester or other cities experiencing different cultures, but only if the weather is not too bad... otherwise he enjoys himself at home with a cup of coffee watching E-sport matches or TV shows.
In his childhood, PengBo was an expert in Chinese Calligraphy. He might have become an artist if he hadn’t liked chemistry so much. Outside of chemistry, PengBo is more likely to hang out and explore the great Manchester or other cities experiencing different cultures, but only if the weather is not too bad... otherwise he enjoys himself at home with a cup of coffee watching E-sport matches or TV shows.
Sophia Sarfraz (2022)
Sophia comes from Pakistan. Her mother always dreamt of her working for NASA one day, but destiny had other plans for her and she developed a great fondness for chemistry that landed her in Manchester for her undergraduate studies.
Manchester has become a second home for Sophia. She has learnt numerous new things here and gained invaluable experiences. She is really excited for her summer placement with the Mills group as she finds f-block chemistry fascinating and the work environment enjoyable.
Apart from chemistry, Sophia enjoys reading, travelling, horse-riding and poetry. Perhaps the question that keeps her mind occupied most of the time is what to wear the next day. She has also discovered a hidden talent upon her arrival in Manchester and that is the ability to burn any food she is cooking. You can leave her in a room filled with flammable solvents, but please don’t leave her in the kitchen unattended as a disaster is always around the corner.
Manchester has become a second home for Sophia. She has learnt numerous new things here and gained invaluable experiences. She is really excited for her summer placement with the Mills group as she finds f-block chemistry fascinating and the work environment enjoyable.
Apart from chemistry, Sophia enjoys reading, travelling, horse-riding and poetry. Perhaps the question that keeps her mind occupied most of the time is what to wear the next day. She has also discovered a hidden talent upon her arrival in Manchester and that is the ability to burn any food she is cooking. You can leave her in a room filled with flammable solvents, but please don’t leave her in the kitchen unattended as a disaster is always around the corner.
Andreas Munch Thiel (2021)
Andreas was born and raised in Aarhus (Denmark), where he is doing his PhD in chemistry at the University of Aarhus (2019-2022) in the group of Associate Professor Jacob Overgaard. His research is all about single-molecule magnets, using techniques such as high-pressure crystallography and polarized neutron diffraction to learn more about them.
Andreas is currently undertaking a 3 month research environment exchange in the group, where he is working with Corentin on synthesizing phospholyl ligands and lanthanide complexes. In his free time he is a big fan of board games and video games, with the occasional hiking in the (not so wild) nature of Denmark.
Andreas is currently undertaking a 3 month research environment exchange in the group, where he is working with Corentin on synthesizing phospholyl ligands and lanthanide complexes. In his free time he is a big fan of board games and video games, with the occasional hiking in the (not so wild) nature of Denmark.
Dukula De Alwis Jayasinghe (2021)
Dukula comes from Colombo, Sri Lanka, a small island just below India, also more commonly referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean". Coming to Manchester in 2018, he fell in love with the place, and is hoping to go around the UK before finishing his studies, though he still has to figure out how public transport works here as he always gets lost wherever he goes.
Currently in his third year, and also commonly referred to as the centre of Chemistry PASS by other students, he is working on a summer placement with Ben to synthesize some really cool silicon-based complexes. He is also working on some (chemistry) curricular development with the library and Dr. Nick Weise at the same time, obviously mostly related to PASS. He can also be found probably at the cinema watching some really classic movie or strolling around Manchester with a coffee in his hand.
Currently in his third year, and also commonly referred to as the centre of Chemistry PASS by other students, he is working on a summer placement with Ben to synthesize some really cool silicon-based complexes. He is also working on some (chemistry) curricular development with the library and Dr. Nick Weise at the same time, obviously mostly related to PASS. He can also be found probably at the cinema watching some really classic movie or strolling around Manchester with a coffee in his hand.
Charlotte Istance-Tamblin - Summer 2019
Charlotte (Charley) Istance-Tamblin came to Manchester as a mature(ish) student to chase her dream of studying radiochemistry; she is working with Ben for summer 2019 for her RSC-sponsored research project in f-element chemistry.
Charley is originally from Leicester and will start her 3rd year of undergrad on placement at Astra Zeneca as an analytical chemist. In the outside world Charley and her wife have a great love of travel and when they can, love to disappear to another country for a weekend, just to see what it’s like there.
Since she used to work in retail for longer than she cares to admit, she is known for talking a great deal and she puts that to good use by being a strong advocate for women in STEM and science communication. She also plays backgammon.
Charley is originally from Leicester and will start her 3rd year of undergrad on placement at Astra Zeneca as an analytical chemist. In the outside world Charley and her wife have a great love of travel and when they can, love to disappear to another country for a weekend, just to see what it’s like there.
Since she used to work in retail for longer than she cares to admit, she is known for talking a great deal and she puts that to good use by being a strong advocate for women in STEM and science communication. She also plays backgammon.
Sara Pischedda - Summer 2019
Sara "The Auditor" Pischedda did an Erasmus+ placement in the Mills group.
Sara is currently carrying out her PhD studies in organometallic chemistry with Professors Sergio Stoccoro and Antonio Zucca at the University of Sassari in Sardinia. She is studying the coordination of Pd(II), Pt(II) and Au(III) with nitrogen-based donor ligands, and is investigating the properties of these compounds. Sara also did her undergraduate degree at Sassari.
Sara is from the most beautiful island in Italy: Sardinia (her words!). However, to escape the permanent Sardinian winter, and longing for warm sunny days, she has decided to spend her summer in Manchester to work in the Mills group. When not skydiving, Sara can often be found in the Arndale centre pursuing her other favourite hobby, shopping.
Sara is currently carrying out her PhD studies in organometallic chemistry with Professors Sergio Stoccoro and Antonio Zucca at the University of Sassari in Sardinia. She is studying the coordination of Pd(II), Pt(II) and Au(III) with nitrogen-based donor ligands, and is investigating the properties of these compounds. Sara also did her undergraduate degree at Sassari.
Sara is from the most beautiful island in Italy: Sardinia (her words!). However, to escape the permanent Sardinian winter, and longing for warm sunny days, she has decided to spend her summer in Manchester to work in the Mills group. When not skydiving, Sara can often be found in the Arndale centre pursuing her other favourite hobby, shopping.
Yu Xuan Yeoh - Summer 2017
Yu Xuan 'Jocelyn' Yeoh comes from Penang, Malaysia. She worked with Jingjing as part of her summer internship programme, investigating lanthanide organometallic chemistry. Jocelyn did her B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry at the Universiti Sains Malaysia.
Jocelyn eats rice every single day, which is one of the simplest diets of any organism on the planet to maintain (as long as there is rice). Interestingly, she has a severe allergy towards crustacean shells, but as a true daredevil she still eats shellfish. Jocelyn enjoys listening to Chinese orchestra music and Korean pop songs, despite not understanding the lyrics. Perhaps this is a good thing for enjoying K-pop.
Jocelyn eats rice every single day, which is one of the simplest diets of any organism on the planet to maintain (as long as there is rice). Interestingly, she has a severe allergy towards crustacean shells, but as a true daredevil she still eats shellfish. Jocelyn enjoys listening to Chinese orchestra music and Korean pop songs, despite not understanding the lyrics. Perhaps this is a good thing for enjoying K-pop.
Jon Kragskow - Summer 2016
Jon Kragskow worked in the group during the summer between the second and third year of his MChem degree. He was supervised by Conrad on the stabilisation of low coordinate lanthanide complexes using bulky silylamide ligands.
Jon is originally from Dunstable in the south but much prefers the great weather of the north of England. He can usually be found enjoying bad 80s music in the lab, or hoping that maybe this year the Chicago Cubs will win the World Series.
Jon is originally from Dunstable in the south but much prefers the great weather of the north of England. He can usually be found enjoying bad 80s music in the lab, or hoping that maybe this year the Chicago Cubs will win the World Series.
Laura Buckley - Summer 2015
Laura "Smellycat" Buckley worked in the group over the summer before starting the final year of her MChem degree. She is working towards the synthesis of novel low-oxidation state actinide complexes with Ally.
Laura originally comes from foggy London town but now calls Manchester home. When she isn't volunteering being a crazy cat lady on weekends, Laura can probably be found swinging a hockey bat, or singing her heart out at open-mic nights across south Manchester.
Laura is hoping to put her summer spent studying super schlenk skills to good use in an inorganic-based final year project, before deciding on her future career after university.
Laura originally comes from foggy London town but now calls Manchester home. When she isn't volunteering being a crazy cat lady on weekends, Laura can probably be found swinging a hockey bat, or singing her heart out at open-mic nights across south Manchester.
Laura is hoping to put her summer spent studying super schlenk skills to good use in an inorganic-based final year project, before deciding on her future career after university.
Maddie Knight - Summer 2014
Maddie "the Tacnatrix" Knight worked in the group over the summer, funded by the Nuclear FiRST DTC before she started the final year of her MChem degree. She worked on the synthesis of Cp-based complexes and also tacn-based complexes for low-oxidation state actinide chemistry with Ally (earning her reluctant nickname...).
Maddie hails from the Vale of Evesham (strangley just a couple of miles away from Ally) and as a consequence has a taste for the finer things the West Country has to offer (mostly cider & asparagus...). In her spare time she enjoys listening to terrible music and trying in vain to top up her tan...A little known fact about Maddie is that she is actually a vampire.
Maddie undertook her 4th year Mchem project in the same lab as the Mills group, under the supervision of Professor Simon Pimblott and Dr Louise Natrajan. She starts work on the "Nuclear Graduates" scheme in 2015, congratulations!
Maddie hails from the Vale of Evesham (strangley just a couple of miles away from Ally) and as a consequence has a taste for the finer things the West Country has to offer (mostly cider & asparagus...). In her spare time she enjoys listening to terrible music and trying in vain to top up her tan...A little known fact about Maddie is that she is actually a vampire.
Maddie undertook her 4th year Mchem project in the same lab as the Mills group, under the supervision of Professor Simon Pimblott and Dr Louise Natrajan. She starts work on the "Nuclear Graduates" scheme in 2015, congratulations!
Anne Lossois - Summer 2014
Anne 'La Machine' Lossois worked in the group over the summer of 2014 on an Erasmus funded placement as part of her Masters degree. She worked closely with Ally on uranium chemistry, towards the stabilisation of uranyl(V) complexes.
Anne is currently in the 4th year of an Engineering Degree at the ENSCR (Ecole Nationale Superieure de Chimie de Rennes). As part of her degree, Anne has a vast array of scientific knowledge and skills, but she has decided to hone her skills in chemistry! (very wise)
Following her Masters degree, Anne hopes to go on to study for a PhD and is particularly interested in decomissioning and the design of new nuclear fuels. Back home in her spare time, she enjoys working as a bookmaker at the horseraces.
La Machine earns her nickname from her ridiculous work ethic, her ability to (literaally) juggle several reactions at once, and the fact she has filled the Mills group freezer with crystallisation schelnks.... To her credit, Anne (along with Beatrice) has attempted to impart some culture on the Mills group, persuading everyone to try the finest Brittany cuisine, a level of culture that will (probably) never be matched again...
Anne is currently in the 4th year of an Engineering Degree at the ENSCR (Ecole Nationale Superieure de Chimie de Rennes). As part of her degree, Anne has a vast array of scientific knowledge and skills, but she has decided to hone her skills in chemistry! (very wise)
Following her Masters degree, Anne hopes to go on to study for a PhD and is particularly interested in decomissioning and the design of new nuclear fuels. Back home in her spare time, she enjoys working as a bookmaker at the horseraces.
La Machine earns her nickname from her ridiculous work ethic, her ability to (literaally) juggle several reactions at once, and the fact she has filled the Mills group freezer with crystallisation schelnks.... To her credit, Anne (along with Beatrice) has attempted to impart some culture on the Mills group, persuading everyone to try the finest Brittany cuisine, a level of culture that will (probably) never be matched again...
Selena Lockyer - Summer 2013
Selena Lockyer undertook a summer project in the group, beginning the work on the synthesis of bulky silylamides and also on guanidinate ligands. As one of the original three members of Dave's group (along with Ally and Nick, the "founding fathers"), she spent a lot of the summer helping to set up the lab, and laying the foundations for those to come...
Selena has just completed her PhD degree at Manchester in the Magnets group. She is a talented rugby player, and is definitely the healthiest person to have graced the group (shame on the rest of us!). Selena is also a lifelong Manics fan to her enormous credit.
Selena has just completed her PhD degree at Manchester in the Magnets group. She is a talented rugby player, and is definitely the healthiest person to have graced the group (shame on the rest of us!). Selena is also a lifelong Manics fan to her enormous credit.
Nick Jones - Summer 2013
Nick 'Forefather' Jones worked in the group during the summer of 2013, with the aim of improving his synthetic chemistry skills by making key starting materials for the group. He also started off work in the group on synthesising bulky Cp ligands alongside Ally. He, as well as Selena, was key in setting up the lab and getting the 'Mills group' ball rolling. (Just dont ask him about Cp*...)
Nick studied his PhD with Dr Sarah Heath at Manchester working just around the corner from the Mills group.
Nick studied his PhD with Dr Sarah Heath at Manchester working just around the corner from the Mills group.
