Shiplake College News

As part of our SPOTLIGHT On… series we interview our Old Vikings to hear about life after Shiplake College. We delve into what career paths they chose and what influenced them along the way.

This month our focus is on science and we are delighted to welcome back James Mottram (15E) to hear about life after Shiplake and how his passion for science has turned into an incredible career.

Job Title: Post Graduate Researcher – University of Leeds

Which field of science do you work in?

My specific field of research sits between Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. Optimising reactions that traditionally are completed under batch conditions for flow chemistry. This current movement within the scientific research field provides an increase in sustainability and cost effectiveness for high value products such as pharmaceuticals.

When did you realise you had a passion for science?

My passion for science began when I was at Shiplake. Seeing the strong links between the basic scientific principles we were learning in school to sciences real world applications. Events such as Science Live, where we got to interact with esteemed leaders within the scientific field, highlighted the real enjoyment I still find in science today.

What was it about the field of science that captured your imagination?

Sciences ability to explain everyday phenomena is what really captures my imagination. The ability to understand why things happen and the quirky history around how they were discovered is fascinating. It drives me to continue learning daily.

What areas of science did you study, where did you study and how did your time at Shiplake influence that journey? Were there any teachers along the way that inspired you?

At Shiplake I studied Chemistry and Physics at A-Level, before then going on to study and integrated masters in Chemical and Energy Process Engineering at the University of Leeds. Throughout my journey I found my teachers to be inspirational, supporting, and patient where I struggled in understanding new concepts. My experience of peer-to-peer learning at Shiplake, where we supported and problem solved together, is what I found most inspirational.

How did you decide on which area of science to pursue?

My decision to study flow chemistry, incorporating 3D printed microreactors and data driven optimisation, was slowly developed throughout my time at university. Primarily it was my decision to pursue what I had found interesting throughout my studies whilst also moving back to the beautiful world of colour chemistry. However I have found through my pursuits that the world of science is broadly interdisciplinary with a strong focus on collaborating outside my chosen field and improve the reach of my research.

Did you have a career in mind when you were considering which area to pursue?

When deciding what to study at university I didn’t have any particular career in mind. Instead, I decided to pursue that which I enjoyed most. Now that I am coming to the end of my research contract, I am looking to begin a career in teaching. I wish to inspire students to study the sciences and help them see where science influences their day to day life.

Is there an area of science that you wish you had pursued?

Whilst I don’t believe there is a particular area I whish I had pursued, I still look beyond my research field. I continue to learn about science that interests me through podcasts, books, and journal articles.

What skills outside of academic do you need to be successful in the science world?

Interpersonal skills are key. Science is collaboration, and the ability to effectively communicate with other scientist is the most important attribute you can have to succeed in the world of science.

What do you see as the big future trends for science? Are there areas of science that concern you?

The environment and sustainability is the biggest future trend for science. Focusing on ensuring the betterment of the world for future generation has already begun to inspire research. However, one concern I have is on the over dependence on the electrification of vehicles without the appropriate infrastructure in place. Fuels such as Hydrogen, Ammonia, and green synthetic fuels provide excellent alternatives. I hope world leaders realise this and ensure a diverse and dependable solution for the current transport fuel crisis.

Why is Science so important to society?

Science forms the foundation of society. From consumer goods and materials, to medicines and powering our lives. Continuing scientific research will ensure a more robust future, with clean air, improved health, and social equality for all.

Who are the scientists that inspire you or have shaped your thinking over the years?

I wouldn’t say any one particular scientist have inspired me. Instead, the ability of the scientific community to problem solve, and rapidly deliver solutions. One such example would be the development of the Covid-19 vaccine in record time.

If there’s one piece of advice that you could give your younger self or an aspiring scientist about a career in Science, what would it be?

Never be afraid to be wrong or fail. For every advancement we see in science there are hundreds of ideas that fail. But it is learning from these failures that leads to the big successes. Science is tough, but incredibly rewarding.

A massive thank you to James for such an interesting and thoughtful interview.

If you are an Old Viking and would be interested in sharing how you turned your passion into a career, please contact [email protected].