Meet Vaishnavi

Studying in the UK

I chose to study in the UK because of its strong reputation for academic excellence and research-focused postgraduate education. Coming from India, studying abroad allowed me to broaden my academic and personal horizons beyond what was available in my home country. I wanted the opportunity to learn from different perspectives, collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds, and develop both my research skills and my global outlook. 

Why choose Newcastle University?

I chose Newcastle University because of its strong research reputation in process intensification and its commitment to advancing net-zero and sustainable technologies, which aligns closely with my academic interests and long-term goals. I have always been passionate about developing solutions that can reduce environmental impact, and Newcastle’s research groups in this area are internationally recognised for their innovative approaches and real-world contributions. 

What also drew me to Newcastle was the opportunity to work with supervisors who are active leaders in sustainability-focused research. The University provides excellent laboratory facilities, industry collaborations, and an environment that encourages interdisciplinary thinking – qualities that are essential for impactful research in process intensification and cleaner manufacturing. Newcastle offers a balance of academic challenge, collaborative culture, and a strong sense of purpose in addressing global environmental challenges. 

Studying Bio-renewable sources

My degree course provided hands-on laboratory experience and process knowledge, preparing me to work on both chemical processes and drug-related applications. It's an ideal course for anyone who wants to tackle real-world challenges through hands-on research, providing access to excellent laboratory facilities, a supportive and collaborative research community, and opportunities to develop both practical and analytical skills. 

I really enjoy the lab work and the fact that my research has the potential to make a real-world impact. Being able to design experiments, test new ideas, and see tangible results that could contribute to sustainability and innovation is what makes this degree exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re interested in sustainability, process innovation, or making an impact in chemical engineering, this degree equips you with the knowledge, experience, and network to succeed in both academia and industry. 

Being funded by UKRI has been a huge support throughout my degree. It allowed me to focus fully on my research without financial worries, access the best laboratory facilities, attend conferences, and collaborate with other researchers. The funding also opened up opportunities for professional development, workshops, and networking that have enriched both my academic and personal growth. 

Student support services

The student support services at Newcastle University have been incredible. The Academic Skills Kit was especially helpful—whether it was improving my academic writing, referencing, or managing my research timeline, the workshops and online resources gave me practical strategies that I still use every day. I also made use of the Library support team, who were very approachable and helped me refine my literature search methods and use research databases more effectively. Even attending drop-in sessions with the Wellbeing Service helped me learn how to balance workload and maintain a healthy routine. 

Overall, these support services have helped me feel more confident and supported both academically and personally, and they still play an important role in helping me settle into postgraduate research life. 

Getting to know Newcastle

For fun, I like exploring Newcastle’s cafés, walking along the Quayside, and taking trips to the coast or nearby nature spots. Newcastle is a very friendly and walkable city, and I’ve really enjoyed exploring it. The city is easy to navigate, the community is supportive, and the atmosphere on campus makes you feel like you belong very quickly. There is a great balance here – it's vibrant and lively, but not overwhelming. It has become the kind of place where I feel both motivated to work and relaxed outside the lab. I enjoy finding those small breaks from research that help me recharge. 

I’ve found the social aspect of university really enjoyable. There are plenty of opportunities to meet people, both within my research group and through University events and societies. I particularly enjoyed joining some of the Give It A Go activities run by the Students’ Union — things like exploring different parts of the city, trying new hobbies, and even attending outdoor and wilderness trips. These experiences made it easy to make friends. 

I enjoy the sense of community that Student Societies create, with opportunities to meet people, attend social events, and share experiences both inside and outside of research. Being involved in the Chemical Engineering Society and the Postgraduate Society has helped me feel connected and supported during my postgraduate studies. 

What is your advice for anyone thinking of applying to Newcastle University?

My top tips for applying would be: start early, clearly explain your research ideas, show your passion for your field, and make sure your application reflects why Newcastle is the right place for you. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to potential supervisors – they’re very approachable and can provide valuable guidance.