Sannia Farooque

Sannia graduated with a MChem degree in Chemistry from the University of Leeds. Following that, funded by the EPSRC, she started on her PhD, titled ‘Identification and purification of bioactive natural products’, working on several projects that are based on identification and purification of natural products from complex matrices originating from plants and microorganisms.

Undergraduate study

Sannia chose to study Chemistry because Chemistry is at the heart of modern science. She said, “The world of chemistry is so beautiful that it never stops to amaze me. I believe studying Chemistry will open up doors to a vast number of opportunities. I was also attracted to study at the University of Leeds because of the quality and versatility of research here at Leeds, and impressed by the equal opportunities and generous scholarships available here. During my studies, I have developed a keen interest in computer modelling which can be used to design organic synthesis.

Chemistry is at the heart of modern science.

Adult Learner Award

Sannia was a recipient of the Adult Learner Award. The award acts as formal recognition by the University of the obstacles adult learners have overcome while also acting as an inspiration to other potential adult learners. “It’s hard work for mature students who are doing a degree on top of maintaining their family/ work life. It is a competitive award, and I feel so honoured for being awarded it.

Research and Leadership Scholarship

“This scholarship enables the scholar to undertake two research projects in consecutive summers. I did a project on the extraction of natural products and their uses and a project in computer modelling.But that’s not all. It offers so many other exciting opportunities ranging from volunteering at The House of Lords to getting involved in science festivals and school outreach activities. I have been given leadership trainings which has been invaluable.”

Advice

The world of chemistry is so beautiful that it never stops to amaze me.

“To anyone thinking of applying, if you like chemistry and want higher probability of getting a job at the end of your degree, then chemistry at Leeds is the degree for you.”

Find out more 

Discover more about our Undergraduate degree courses in the School of Chemistry.