Shadi Soheilian 

What is your current job / programme of study?   

PhD Student/ Characterisation of nano- and micro-plastics in complex systems 

What A-Levels (or equivalent) did you do? 

Math and Physics 

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

Because of diverse experimental activities at school, I understood that I am highly interested in physics and chemistry. I studied Physics and Nanotechnology at university. Then, regarding my educational background and my personal interest in materials, I have decided to research on a project related to Materials Science for my PhD project.  

What did you enjoy most about your MSE course?  

My MSE course, Nanotechnology, as an interdisciplinary subject has grown to develop diverse fields of research, from physics to chemistry and biology. This issue helps me to broaden my horizon by learning different practical skills in diverse research areas.  

What is your research about?  

My current research is about studying chemical and physical properties of aged micro-plastics in the environment in order to estimate their potential hazard to ecosystems. My research activities focus on methodological approaches to characterise plastics pollution as well as the physiochemical degradation of them. 

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

During my master’s project, I synthesized a nanocrystalline material showing luminescent properties when it is exposed to gamma radiation. As my first experience in fabrication of materials in a lab, it was a valuable experience. 

What do you see yourself doing in the future? 

My plan for future is to be a member of a professional team in a knowledge enterprise or industrial section working on novel environmentally friendly materials.  

What is your favourite material (and why)?  

Considering the lack of knowledge on the fate of plastics in the environment and their impact on ecosystems, my favourite material is plastic materials. I am enthusiastic about studying their deformation in nature, degrading different size range and the physiochemical behaviour of them. 

What advice would you give your 16 year old self? 

My advice would be to communicate with successful people with diverse skills and interests. This would be helpful for me as a young student to reveal my passions and consequently choose my plan more wisely. 

Finally, I would suggest joining sports clubs to build your social skills and boost your wellbeing!

Links to Shadi’s external webpages:

Shadab (Shadi) Soheilian | LinkedIn 

Shadi Soheilian – Hatton Polymer Group