MSc(Eng) Polymers and Composites

Job title: Development and Application Engineer at Clariant

What organisation does: The manufacture of a range of specialty chemicals based largely on pigment, surfactant and polymer chemistry.

Main responsibilities: New product development, provide customer service relating to material performance, setup pilot of production runs and processes for new products.

Why did you choose Materials Science and Engineering?
I had a background in polymers, and had already decided to build my career in the speciality chemicals/polymer industry so it was natural for me to choose Materials Science and Engineering at Sheffield. The Department is also highly-regarded among employers.


Why did you choose Sheffield? What do you enjoy about the city?
The University of Sheffield (UoS) is part of the Russell Group and has many collaborations with large and successful multinational corporations. UoS is also well-known for its teaching and research excellence, I knew it was one of the best places for me to pursue higher education and also get me in good standing when applying for a job.

The good thing about Sheffield is that it has a little bit of everything. It has a bit of the city and is also close to nature. There is a huge variety of eateries which is great, I particular like shopping at the Moor Market.

What's been the most enjoyable part of the course?
The MSc project was the most enjoyable because it was when you really get tested. You get to display your abilities better because it resembled taking on a real work assignment alone. I felt the Project is a great way to evaluate the student.

What did you do outside of University?
I am passionate about investing, and I spent most weekday mornings watching the movements in the Asian equity markets and reading. I went for Muay Thai sessions at a local gym along Effingham road. I also like to travel and searched for the non-touristy areas.

If you could give one piece of advice to students beginning their taught masters?
Identify your end goal and be clear what your reason for taking this programme is. This will keep you motivated to do well because you already have your priorities.

After completing my MSc in Polymers and Polymer Composite Science and Engineering, I am now employed as a Project Engineer at Plazology Limited. Plazology works closely with various global leading companies throughout the plastic industry and I am actively involved in supporting customers across Europe and Asia in both Research & Development facilities and Manufacturing Plants.

What does your job entail, day to day tasks?
Projects I have worked on vary, from small consumer goods such as deodorant caps and closures, medical packaging, to large automotive parts. My job scope includes; material selection, product design optimisation, injection mould flow simulation, mould design, design for manufacture, and mould and process validation.

Why did you chose to study your degree at Sheffield?
Plastics have become indispensable in our daily life. I find it interesting to witness and hopefully be able to contribute, in some way, to this continual improvement in science and technology. Plus Sheffield University has one of the top ranked materials engineering departments in England. It has also been voted the best university in terms of student experience, social life, university facilities and accommodation.

How has your degree helped support your career?
The knowledge and skills I have learnt at the University of Sheffield have enabled me to secure a good job. It also allowed me to grasp the concept of my new job responsibilities within a shorter time frame, when I first started working.

What did you enjoy the most whilst studying at Sheffield?
The lecturers at Sheffield are very approachable and the facilities, such as the libraries and sports centres, are well equipped.

How did you find the process of moving to Sheffield?
I faced minimal problems when relocating from Singapore to Sheffield, I stayed in Ranmoor Student Village, which is beautiful and had everything I needed.

If you could offer any advice to students?
Studying at Sheffield University has definitely moulded me to become a better individual as well as a teammate. I recommend all prospective students to study hard, play hard and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful city.