Amy Morgan

What is your current job / programme of study?

Studying for a PhD with the Advanced Biomedical Materials CDT at the University of Sheffield.

What A-Levels did you study? 

Biology, Chemistry, Product Design  

Why did you choose a career in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)? 

Materials influence us in every area of life including transport, architecture, medicine and technology, just to name a few. Studying Materials means I can help create a more sustainable future and also improve patients’ quality of life through medical materials.  

What did you enjoy most about your Materials Science course?  

I enjoyed delving into the wide variety of topics taught on the course. These included (but were not limited to) materials processing, coding, biochemistry, recycling, and even anatomy. The time spent in lab sessions getting hands-on with materials was also really fun.  

What is your research about? 

I’ve recently researched polymer coatings for surfaces that repel bacteria. This is great for hospital surfaces to prevent spread of infections. At the moment I’m looking into creating fibrous mats from polymer/bioglass mixtures to help skin wound healing.  

What is the coolest thing you have done in your career so far? 

During my second year of university, we had a lab where we deconstructed an old laptop using hammers, saws and screwdrivers. We then got to pick 5 materials from the smashed-up laptop and identify them using super interesting and expensive microscopes!  

What do you see yourself doing in the future? 

I love how materials can be used in medicine so I would love to work in creating materials for healthcare.  

What is your favourite material (and why)? 

Spider silk. It’s really strong, yet really stretchy. Humans have still not managed to manufacture silk quite like a spider can. There’s a wonderful natural creation around us to learn from.  

What advice would you give your 16 year old self? 

If you’re passionate about an engineering-based subject (like I was passionate about Product Design and Materials), pursue it! Whoever says “it’s not a subject for girls” is wrong. Being a woman in science and engineering is a very empowering and exciting experience.  

Link to Amy’s external webpage:

https://amzmorgan.wordpress.com – Amy’s blog about her journey as a PhD student

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-morgan-loughborough/