Harry Demetriou

Researcher in Plastic Electronic Materials, Imperial College London
Engineering and Physical Sciences Foundation Year, 2013; MSci Chemistry, 2018

I am currently a part of the centre for doctoral training in plastic electronics at Imperial College London. As part of the centre for doctoral training I am currently completing an MRes degree before the start of my PhD. Working with Professor Sandrine Heutz, as part of her PhD group, I will be investigating the microstructure of molecular blends in order to favour isolated molecules, superstructures and phase separated domains for applications such as molecular spintronics and organic solar cells.

My fondest memories of the University have to be moments spent with the people I met over my time there. Whether this be with fellow course mates, friends met through societies or in halls. The people you spend your time with will help shape and make your experience at University.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham?
My career is still very much in its infancy, having only graduated from the University of Birmingham earlier this year. Nevertheless my time spent at the university was pivotal in reaching my position today.

What is the best thing about what you are doing now?
I am exploring an area of science that I have always found fascinating.

What motivates you?
The hope to pursue a successful career to make my parents proud and be able to feel fulfilled in my life.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?
One of the main features that drew me to applying to Birmingham was the feeling I got being on campus. It was immediately somewhere I could see myself spending the next stage of my life. Studying at the University of Birmingham offers you a chance to experience an amazing city, different cultures and meet new people, as well as receive a fantastic education.

What are your fondest memories of the University?
My fondest memories of the University have to be moments spent with the people I met over my time there. Whether this be with fellow course mates, friends met through societies or in halls. The people you spend your time with will help shape and make your experience at University. I also enjoyed spending time in the labs as part of my degree.

How did you grow as a person by coming to University?
From the start to finish of my undergraduate degree I grew massively as a person. I was extremely shy when I first started. Being in a completely new environment, surrounded by friendly students and supportive staff members helped me to gain confidence in myself. My approach to learning, as well as soft skills were developed considerably over my time spent there.

What did you think of the learning experience within the University?
Lecturers who taught courses during my degree were extremely approachable to ask questions to. I found the small group tutorial sessions, which were ran during early years of my degree, particularly useful in helping build my understanding of the course material. Its a less daunting environment to ask questions about problems and working through them collectively. The School of Chemistry was also accommodating to feedback given to course representatives during my time there, ensuring the course was being taught in the most helpful way.

What inspired you most during your time as a student?
Lecturers and friendships inspired me the most during my time as a student. Helping to set good examples and give advice about how to approach problems in life. Whether they be academic or personal.

What advice would you give to current students?
Don't be afraid to push yourself. Get involved and take as many opportunities as you can, academic or socially. Societies are a fantastic way to meet new people and be part of something other than academia. Apply to many work experience opportunities and don't be put off if you aren't successful to some. It's an extremely competitive world out there and it might not be because you were the wrong candidate, but simply due to the volume of people applying. That's why it's crucial to make yourself stand out.

Read more about our alumni here. If like Harry you would like to share your career story, please complete a profile or email eps-community@contacts.bham.ac.uk.