Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

Course Leader of BSc (Hons) Applied Sciences (Foundation Entry).
Lecturing in Physics (Foundation), Skills for Science (Foundation), Criminalistics (2nd year undergraduate), 3rd year dissertation project supervisor. Retention tutor and Academic Advisor.

Variety of teaching (lectures, tutorials, workshops) in physics, skills for science and forensic science. Meeting personal tutees, administrative responsibilities involved with the course leader role.

Every day is different and there are many opportunities for you to challenge yourself (get involved in research, present at conferences etc.). I enjoy the pastoral side of working with students and the job is very flexible around my two children.

The diverse cohort (academic abilities and interests) can make teaching physics (often an unpopular subject) challenging at times. The Course Leader role brings greater responsibility and a larger workload which can be difficult to juggle at times.

The job combined my Physics and Forensic Science experience and I enjoy teaching.

MPhys (dual Hons) Physics & Astronomy degree.
MSc (by Research) in Forensic Science
Analytical chemistry skills gained during my PhD.
PG Cert in Learning & Teaching in HE.

Working with a number of engineers, I had six months on-the-job training directly examining vehicles that had been involved in accidents.

PG Cert in Learning & Teaching in HE - University of Central Lancashire, 2015-2016.

Lecturer at University of Central Lancashire - since September 2014.

Research Assistant - Lancaster UNiversity - 3 months, 2014.

PhD in Forensic & Investigative Science - University of Central Lancashire
'Catalytic Degradation of Waste Polymers', 2005-2011.

Consultant Forensic Collision Invesigator - GBB(UK) Ltd. - 2004-2013.

Forensic Footwear Technician - Lancashire Constabulary - 2003-2004.

MSc (by Research) in Forensic & Investigative Science - University of Central Lancashire
'A Spectroscopic Study of Paint', 2002-2003.

Research Scientist - Defence Science Technology Laboratory (Dstl) - 2000-2001.

Staying at UCLan as a Lecturer in Forensic Science (and hopefully promotion to Senior Lecturer where I can do more research).

Since graduating from Sheffield in 2000, I have worked at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) in a physics-based role. I re-trained as a Forensic Scientist and was employed by Lancashire Constabulary to analyse footwear evidence left at crime scenes. I have been an Accident Investigator and am now a university lecturer. I would say to students that it is possible to change your career path and still do well and be happy.

Be flexible as a physics degree can open many doors.