Surfactant Chemist Review

Primarily I work on product development, working on bespoke cleaning products. This includes the finalisation of product formulations and quality control parameters. Additionally, I oversee the calibration and internal auditing checks within the company, and oversee the Quality Management Systems that underpin the day-to-day running of the company, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 & 13485.

Within XRO I have substantially developed my knowledge of formulatory techniques and the development of novel test methods for the often niche areas that our products are used. My background knowledge of chemistry, specifically surfactant chemistry has also improved throughout my time with the company. My regulatory knowledge has also expanded substantially during my time with XRO, having worked under the purview of cosmetic, medical and marine regulations extensively.

The course at MMU has been thoroughly enjoyable. The content has been taught in a way that keeps it accessible and engaging. Feedback has always been insightful and helped me to develop my skills and knowledge. Residential weeks are a particular highlight when we get to meet up and socialise with fellow course mates.

The course is broken down into modules, approximately 2/3 per academic year. Whilst these are mostly well paced, there have been occasions where some would consider the workload excessive, especially when deadlines cluster together or when deadlines intersect with important dates within the work calendar. This issue became more pronounced as the distance course began to align more closely with the full time program.

During the first 3 years, setting aside time for study was always a bit of a battle. However, during the final 2 I have been allocated 1 day a week to commit to university fairly consistently, with any days missed moved onto later weeks. I have also recieved ample support whilst conducting the final year project.

Support from the tutors, lecturers and additional staff at MMU has been excellent! Often backing up teaching with additional support webinars or online material when requested and relatively quick at returning emails. As mentioned previously, feedback has always been of benefit in helping me to improve the quality of my work.

The qualification has helped me to solidfy my knowledge of the fundamentals of chemistry, essentially giving me a foundation on which to apply theory to the day to day scientific problems I face within my job role. The principles of lean manufacturing and green chemistry have been particularly influential on how I perform.

No, not particularly, unless a Christmas meal counts as an extra-curricular activity. However, I am on good terms with most of the workforce and occasionally spend time with them outside of the workplace going rambling, drinking, to the odd escape room, that sort of thing. I wouldn't really consider this linked to the the work place though. The Christmas meal is pretty good though, free food and drink!

Yes

I have actually done so several times. Whilst a small company XRO provides a stimulating work environment, with friendly staff and the pay isn't too bad. Specific to the lab work encountered in my position, due to the nature of the position, each new project keeps things fresh, which I find a fantastic benefit - one week I may be developing a horse shampoo, the next I may be working towards cleaning a highly specialised piece of medical equipment.

If you were to feel inclined towards a position here it would likely be best to ensure you are open and honest about your abilities. Integrity is a valued characteristic here and training oppurtunities are plenty. Experience is beneficial, particularly within more technical positions, but not always essential as training is provided.