Tamara Griffiths

Undertaking a PhD will provide a fantastic opportunity to develop the skills and techniques that I have learnt during my undergraduate degree. It will be a brilliant achievement to be able to further my knowledge in chemistry to a higher level, and also it would be an exciting challenge of researching new areas, where I am likely to face problems that will have to be solved.

I am doing a PhD because I wish to play a role in maintaining the University of Manchester’s proud tradition of excellent scientific research. I want to expand andcontribute to scientific knowledge and be part of making new discoveries for the good of society. I enjoy all aspects of my course. I enjoy learning new techniques in the laboratory, making new discoveries and solving problems. I enjoy being part of a team, yet having my own research to concentrate on. I enjoy working in a warm and friendly atmosphere, where help is always at hand.

I am able to enhance my communication skills, for example, through having the opportunity to present the findings of my research at meetings and conferences. Attending conferences and presenting research benefits myself and all institutes concerned by improving international links and interest through the sharing of knowledge. I am able to work as part of a team within the Centre of Radiochemistry Research (CRR), and hope to solve problems and make a difference on the big research areas that are important for today’s society. Contributing to the University of Manchester's history and reputation of outstanding research, by being part of some of the top scientific research teams in the UK, is a privilege.

The course has a duration of three years. At the end of the first and second years, a research report is written up and examined by viva voce. At the end of the third year, a presentation is given, which is marked, and a thesis is written, which is examined by viva voce.

The research programme is primarily laboratory based. Experiments are conducted regularly, and time is spent in the office reading literature, preparing for experiments and writing-up experimental reports. My supervisor operates an open door policy, so I often can just walk into his office if I need help and assistance. I have Radiochemistry group meetings twice a month and meet with my supervisor once a week. The research programme is flexible. It is my responsibility to manage my time effectively between laboratory based work and office work. Core working hours are 10 am to 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday, but I tend to work 9 am to 5 pm, and work later some evenings depending on the experiment being conducted.

My future plans are open to anything as a postgraduate degree can give opportunities to work in a variety of areas. I am considering applying for a post-doctoral position or going back into industry, possibly in the nuclear field. Both academia and industry offer the chance to be part of research and development in a fast paced environment.

I love how there is always something to occupy my time in Manchester, I never feel bored. Whether it’s going to the theatre to see a play, music, comedy or strolling around the shops or simply catching up with friends, there’s something for everyone. I enjoy cycling around the city-it’s a brilliant way to get around the city and beat the traffic. Manchester is a flat city, with very few hills, and so there are some good cycling routes. There are many organised bike rides that I participate in, cycling clubs and cycling festivals. I also enjoy running and being creative with arts and crafts.

Manchester is very affordable to live in. In areas not far from the university, such as Victoria Park, the accommodation is reasonably priced. Eating out and shopping can also be quite reasonably priced as many of the chain restaurants or shops offer student discounts. Vouchers and promotions are available most of the time, which offer value for money. I would say that it is a brilliant and vibrant city that offers something for everyone! There are many clubs and societies available to suit anyone’s taste, where you can meet people from all walks of life.