From Industry to Innovation: My Journey into Sustainable Chemistry at the CSCT
Starting a PhD is a major milestone, but for me it has also been an exciting shift into new scientific territory. After two years working in industry, I realised I wanted greater freedom to explore my own research ideas and contribute to innovation at a deeper level. The move from the fast pace of industry to the open-ended exploration of academic research has been both refreshing and challenging.
I chose Bath because of its strong academic community and the CSCT’s distinctive approach to sustainability. The programme combines scientific depth with collaboration and interdisciplinary thinking, which really appealed to me.
The application process was clear and supportive. After submitting my online form and documents, I was invited to give a short presentation based on my final-year MSci project. I quickly realised the interview was not about testing technical details, but about how I think and how my research interests could fit into the bigger picture of sustainability.
Why the CSCT?
Bath has an extensive list of high-profile academics with a good track record in research areas I’m interested in.
Engineering Enzymes for a Greener Future
Once I joined the CSCT, I realised how broad sustainability in chemistry really is. It’s not just about green chemistry; it’s also about understanding the economic and social dimensions that shape how science fits into the world.
At the CSCT, every student undertakes two MRes research projects, one in a familiar area and one that takes you somewhere new. My first project involves engineering a ligase for sustainable peptide modification. It combines synthetic and molecular biology, which was completely new to me after years of organic chemistry.
Traditional peptide chemistry can rely on harsh solvents and reagents, so I’m exploring biocatalysis as a cleaner, more efficient alternative. It’s been fascinating to see how concepts from organic chemistry carry over into biology, techniques like chromatography or purification have their equivalents, but in a totally different context.
What is my MRes project about?
I’m engineering a ligase for sustainable peptide modification, exploring how biocatalysis can replace harsh solvents and make synthesis cleaner and more efficient.
Working with Dr Simon Tang, who started out in organic chemistry and now leads a life-sciences group, has been a great experience. Having someone who understands both worlds has made the learning curve far less steep.
Next year I’ll be joining the Cresswell group for my second project, returning to my roots in organic chemistry. I’ll be working on photoredox catalysis and C–H activation of unprotected amines, an approach that improves atom economy and uses mild, catalytic conditions. It’s a project that connects back to what first drew me into chemistry, but through a more sustainable lens.
Becoming Part of the CSCT Community
Adjusting from industry back to student life has been an adventure. Going from business meetings to lectures took some getting used to, but I’ve enjoyed the change of pace. The CSCT has a real sense of community, everyone supports one another, and the cohort feels more like a group of friends than just colleagues.
We look out for each other, share ideas, and sometimes unwind over board games in the office. That atmosphere makes a huge difference, especially when you’re balancing training, research, and life outside the lab.
Working alongside people from such varied backgrounds – chemists, engineers, and biologists – has also opened my eyes. I used to work only in organic chemistry labs, but now I see completely different ways of approaching problems and thinking about science.
Reflections and Advice
Doing a PhD through the CSCT has been demanding, but that’s exactly what makes it worthwhile. Research doesn’t always go as planned, but that’s part of the process, and it’s what keeps things interesting.
If I had one message for future applicants, it would be to embrace the challenge. Be ready to adapt, stay curious, and make the most of every opportunity the CSCT offers.
Coming soon: Rohan on video
We are filming a series of short student stories to share across our channels, including interview tips and highlights from the lab.
Follow us to see new clips as they are released.
