Alf graduated from the University of Bath in 2004 with an MEng in Chemical Engineering and embarked on a six year career in oil refining. In this time he developed expertise in crude oil distillation and biodiesel blending and he undertook a nine month placement designing a gas to liquids pilot plant. His research project at the CDT is biomass gasification using fluidised bed technology. Alf is a keen karate student and holds a second dan black belt. He also enjoys travelling, currys and real ale.