Chemistry graduate wins prestigious Salters’ Award 2024

The Salters’ Graduate Awards recognise candidates who gain a first-class honours degree in either chemistry or chemical engineering and show passion, skills and motivation to lead the UK chemical sector.

After successfully impressing the panel of academic and industry experts in her interview, Jo won the award and a grant of £1,000. The awards ceremony will take place at the Salters’ Institute in London in December.

Jo has excelled throughout her time at the University of Leeds, including by winning the Robert Macrae Prize for her final year project investigating the synthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in flow, supervised by Professor Tom Chamberlain. Additionally, Jo gained professional experience as a Research and Development Scientist at William Blythe Ltd for her Year in Industry.

Reflecting on her award, Jo said: “It is an honour to have won a Salters’ Graduate Award and to now be an alumni of the Salters' Institute. The values of the institute are well aligned with my belief that the wonderful world of chemistry should be accessible to all.”

“The development of innovative technologies that provide real-world benefit cannot be achieved without passionate scientists, engineers and technicians. A high quality of teaching throughout all stages of education is crucial and I am privileged to now be involved with the Salters’ institute to help achieve this goal.”

“I am very grateful for the experiences and knowledge I have gained throughout my studies at the University of Leeds. All the staff I have encountered within the School of Chemistry have been exemplary, always ensuring that I had the support to achieve my goals.”

“My masters research project also provided me with the opportunity to work alongside some amazing and skilful scientists within the Institute for Process Research and Development, which was a wonderful experience. I am especially thankful to my project supervisor Professor Tom Chamberlain, as well as Dr Róisín O’Connell, for their invaluable support and insight.”

“The University’s dynamic environment encouraged my personal and professional growth, which was further bolstered by my year in industry at William Blythe Ltd. This was a highly rewarding experience within a fantastic team and I extend my thanks to my colleagues and managers for their mentorship and encouragement.”

“Through this experience, I gained a great appreciation for the UK chemical industry and developed skills that helped me thrive during my final year of university.”

“Finally, I would like to thank Professor Chris Rayner and Dr Chris Pask for their assistance throughout the award application process, and my friends and family for their constant help throughout the last four years. I will remember my time at the University of Leeds fondly and I am excited to see what the future holds!”