Dr Nicola Bell she/her

My passion for research comes from discovering how we can change the world around us by close understanding and control of what goes on at a molecular level. Understanding how subtle changes can have outsize results. (This is true in our research culture as well)

My group investigates some of the most reactive chemistries known, those which are sensitive to our reactive atmosphere, and we use new digital technologies to facilitate this and allow us to collect more data than ever. We currently apply this in the area of nuclear chemistry, studying uranium in particular, but there are a wide range of possibilities for our approach and technologies. In the future I’d like to apply this to medical radionuclide handling and other areas where automation can mitigate the risk of hazardous chemicals.

Currently I collaborate with computer scientists, engineers, polymer chemists and physicists to develop technology which can improve the way we collect data in chemistry as well as dramatically improving safety and productivity. I would like to supervise people putting this technology to work on the frontlines of a new field. Using automation of chemistry to safely mitigate risks or to encourage accessibility for students who are differently abled. My lab has facilities such as adjustable fume cupboards for just such a person.

I am a supervisor who understands that a PhD is only one part of a persons life, and it is a time when we often challenge ourselves in ways we haven’t before. This requires a special type of support. I will be excited when your project works and will commiserate with you, but offer solace and strategies to move forward when it doesn’t. I have not graduated any students yet unfortunately but students I have mentored as a during my time as a senior postdoc have gone on to posts such as teaching, consultancy, research management and academic positions.

I have sat on the SoC EDI board and have a particular interest in supporting those with mental health issues and new parents. I have long been a mentor for those who are struggling with mental health during a PhD and have written for ACS Axial about the subject as well as being invited to present on the topic to C&En Futures Festival in 2021.

On a personal note, my own PhD was one of the most joyous, transformative and creatively inspiring periods of my life. I want every student to have this and I want their career development to be supported in a way I feel mine wasn’t. I am fully invested in the concept of this CDT and feel it is exactly the right fit for my personality. Supporting and developing researchers is the most fulfilling part of my job. Seeing them come into their own and do things they once thought they couldn’t do. Become comfortable in their knowledge. Its a feeling like no other. For them and me.