Siren Tan

Siren Tan is from Ningbo in China, and came to Manchester to complete his MSc in Polymer Materials Science and Engineering (PMSE) after graduating from a BEng in PMSE at Wuhan University of Technology in P.R. China.

Now studying for his PhD with the University's School of Chemistry, Siren tells us about his experiences in Manchester:

I graduated with a BEng in PMSE, so the subject was my priority for a higher degree of study. Polymer Science is absolutely the cutting edge of science, and Materials Science is closely related to every aspect of people's life. For example, PVC is a basic structural material for construction, biomaterials are widely used in modern surgery, and polycarbonate is the material for F-117 capsules. Materials Science plays a significant role in modern life, and the science can improve people's quality of life.

It was during my MSc project, which was supervised by Dr Peter Budd, that I started to research 'hydrogen storage on polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs)', and so after graduation, I decided to continue my PhD study in the same research group. Currently I am a third year PhD student in Materials Chemistry; my research concerns PIMs, polymer-supported palladium heterogeneous catalysts, and hydrogen storage.

What would you say have been the main benefits of this course to you?

It was most beneficial to me to involve myself in real research itself while doing my MSc project with Dr Peter Budd. I started hydrogen storage testing on PIMs, and later on these results were published on Angewandte Chemie, the top journal in the field of Chemistry. This rewarding experience greatly inspired and encouraged me to further explore my potential as a scientist, which is why I am now completing my PhD in the same group. In addition, through this course, my English language and communication skills have been greatly improved and research and work experience enriched.

Why did you choose to study at The University of Manchester?

I chose to study at The University of Manchester because it was a highly reputable university internationally, and for its ties with the university where I did my undergraduate BEng degree.

So, what have been the main highlights of your time in Manchester?

Manchester is an international city with multicultural influence; this is really exciting and attractive to me. The city has given me the chance to meet and understand people from different cultures and backgrounds. Also, since I like serious music, Bridgewater Hall in Manchester gives me a chance to enjoy the music I like.

What are your plans for the next couple of years?

I am currently in my last year of PhD study, so my priority is to first fulfil my PhD study, and then I want to find a R and D position in a company with industrial research strength to further my career.

Finally, do you have any tips or advice for students looking to study a similar subject to you?

The PMSE MSc course at The University of Manchester can give students a good chance for their future career; many big companies are happy to recruit our students. This course will enlarge students' horizons in polymer science and polymer industry and provide the students with a good amount of practical work.