MSc Student Spotlight: Exploring the Future of a Circular Bioeconomy

In this case study, we catch up with Saarah Khan, a student on our MSc programme.

Why did you decide to undertake this MSc?

I wanted to gain an appreciation of the processes and nuances involved in industrial biotechnology. The modules covered by this MSc that introduced me to the world of IB and the current developments being made for progression towards a circular economy. The industrial placement aspect is also what set the IBioIC MSc aside from other IB MSc's. 

What are your ambitions for the future? 

Having taken this MSc I have seen the importance and potential there is for waste valorisation within the cosmetic, medicine and plastics industry. In future I aim to make contributions towards the R&D of materials and chemicals utilising waste resources as alternative feedstocks to existing feedstocks like petrochemicals.

What has been your favourite part of the MSc to date? 

So far I am really enjoying my industrial placement at CelluComp, which has allowed me to gain experience and perspective of what working in a professional industrial environment entails. I have loved being introduced to data analysis via coding as well as the multiple class trips, particularly the day at the Flex-Bio downstream processing site in Heriot-Watt!

Where/what do you think the next innovation in IB will be? 

This MSc has been incredibly eye-opening, there are so many developments being currently pioneered towards a sustainable bio-economy. I believe that in the coming years some of the most important transformations will be in alternative materials with the increased legislative pressures to decrease plastic use and waste. 

What is an interesting fact about you / what do you enjoy doing away from your studies? 

Outside of my studies, I love scrapbooking, reading and going to nice cafes. I have also been doing karate since I was 9 and have been a 1st Dan black belt for almost 4 years!