Principal Scientist 

The products Infineum produces and sells are colloidal dispersions. Application of colloid science helps develop products to meet future specifications (chemical limits, extended oil drain, etc.).

I apply physical/colloid chemistry to the development of functional fluids and particles to solve industrial technical problems of next generation colloidal additives for use in lubricants.

My day may involve data analysis, generating hypotheses, writing reports, papers or patents; or presenting progress to project stakeholders and at conferences. I also supervise a team of scientists, so we spend time working out what data have told us and planning future work. I also run university collaborations and represent the company at the Royal Society of Chemistry. 

I enjoy applying complex characterisation techniques (and in particular, light and neutron scattering) to (non-ideal) industrial systems to solve problems.

I studied for my PhD at the University of East Anglia, then spent time in industry developing emulsion polymers before moving to Bristol University to take up a post-doctoral position. I moved to Infineum in 2001 to take a position in the Lubricant Component Group.

I am a consultant/ troubleshooter for all areas of technology for issues involving surfactants/colloids. I act as one of the primary external academic contacts and have become involved in external research funding. I also run a student placement program for undergraduate chemistry students. 

Working at Infineum gives me a chance to apply my skills to “real world” systems/ problems. Here you have the ability to mold your career to your particular skill-set. This is a good bunch of people to work with.