Strachan graduated with an MChem from the University of Bath in 2015. His research project was concerned with the application of alkaline earth organometallics in small molecule catalyses, though this was overshadowed in the public consciousness by his surprise victory in the 2014 Great Chemistry Bake Off. When he is not doing chemistry, or asleep, Strachan can be found riding the open road on his beloved bikes, mountaineering, cooking, and occasionally playing the clarinet.