Congratulations to MChemPhys graduate Ben Tan, who has received a 2024 Salters’ Institute Graduate Award for Chemistry. This prestigious award recognises Ben as one of the top chemistry and chemical engineering students in the UK.Each year the Salters’ Institute recognises graduates of chemistry and chemical engineering who show potential to occupy leading positions in the UK chemical and allied industries. Candidates for the Salters’ Award are nominated by their university and those shortlisted are interviewed by a panel of both academics and industry figures. They are required to demonstrate their passion, communications skills and potential to occupy a leading position in public life through employment in the chemical or related industries. Alumnus and current PhD student Ben Tan Ben continues the tradition of School of Chemistry success, following on from fellow recent graduates Marta Chronowska who won in 2023, Thomas Winbolt (2022), Finlay Clark (2021), and Adelina Ivanova (2020).Since graduating in 2024, Ben has continued his studies at the School of Chemistry and is now part of the Michel research group. His PhD project is entitled: 'A combined physics and data-driven methodology for the rational design of molecular glue degraders'. The goal of Ben’s project is to apply computational techniques to design novel molecular glue degraders, a relatively untapped but potentially powerful therapeutic approach for the treatment of various forms of cancer, including multiple myeloma, leukaemia and prostate cancer. I'm honoured and grateful to receive the Salter's Graduate Award and to become part of the network of passionate and talented researchers at the Salter's Institute. Applying for the Salter's Award has been a unique and rewarding experience, challenging me to understand the impact of my scientific career within the broader context of the UK chemical industry, while highlighting the importance of promoting scientific advances in society. This wouldn't have been possible without the support of my mentor, Dr David Vass, whose extensive experience and knowledge provided me with valuable insights into the UK chemical sector.My experience at the Edinburgh School of Chemistry has been overwhelmingly positive, from the creativity shown by the teaching staff in engaging students during the pandemic, to the opportunity to gain industry experience during my final year research placement. Being part of the Chemical Physics degree programme allowed me to work at the interface of both subjects, equipping me with a unique perspective and multifaceted problem-solving skills. I'm excited to continue being part of this vibrant community as I begin my PhD studies at the Edinburgh School of Chemistry. Ben Tan MChemPhys alumnus and current PhD student Ben’s achievement is richly deserved and we are delighted that all the hard work which he put into his undergraduate studies have been recognised by the Salters’ Institute. Congratulations and best of luck in your PhD studies, Ben! Dr Claire Hobday UKRI Future Leaders Fellow & University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Fellow Further Information Salters’ Institute Graduate Awards [external link]About the Michel group [external link] Publication date 05 Feb, 2025
