Profile – Chemistry Zone

Education:

I went to Kimberley Comprehensive School on the outskirts of Nottingham. I stayed there for my sixth form too.
After school I studied at Trevelyan College, Durham University.
Qualifications:

8 GCSEs including Chemistry and Physics but not Biology!

A levels Maths, Physics and Chemistry plus General Studies
AS level German

Degree and Ph.D. in Chemistry – both from Durham University
Work History:

Worked as a research assistant at Reading University and Queens University Belfast looking at ways to make hydrogen peroxide
Joined JM in 2001

About Me:

I am a chemist who is interested in ways to make fuels and chemicals sustainably.
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I live in south Oxfordshire with my wife and two children. When I am not thinking about chemistry I enjoy ringing church bells and (when I get the chance) going orienteering.
My Work:

I have worked for Johnson Matthey since 2001. For a long time I worked in the lab making materials but now I am investigating using electricity to make chemicals.
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Most of my work has been in making materials which are catalysts. I enjoy making things which have never been made before! Some of the most satisfying things I have been involved with are projects where we have worked out what a good material would be, and then go ahead and make it.

For the last three years I have changed role and am now leading a group who are looking at using electricity in making chemicals. For most of the things we work on, this involves taking renewable electricity to make sustainable fuels and chemicals such as hydrogen. I like the fact that we are working on an important challenge and one which could make a real difference in the future.
My Typical Day:

My typical day involves a lot of talking to people – I enjoy working with others. Sometimes this is people in the same office and other times people across the world.

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Peter Ellis