Earth and Environmental Sciences (SEES)

PhD Student

Stephanie Sargeant

BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

Since completing my degree I was lucky enough to secure a funded PhD studentship with Plymouth Marine Laboratory. My PhD research investigates the biogeochemical cycling of methanol in seawater, including methanol uptake rates by heterotrophic bacteria in seawater and the identification of methylotrophic bacteria. 

My PhD studentship has provided me with fantastic opportunities such as participating in a 7 week research cruise in the Atlantic Ocean (as part of the Atlantic Meridional Transect programme), attending conferences and an international summer school. The nature of my research questions means that I do a variety of sampling and laboratory analysis of samples, from biogeochemical rate measurements to the use of various molecular techniques. 

I gained a vast skills set whilst studying at Portsmouth, including basic scientific laboratory skills, presenting techniques, a sound knowledge of my subject and a huge increase in my confidence.

Director & Consultant

Iain Vincent

BSc (Hons) Marine Environmental Science

As soon as I graduated from UoP I founded De-energise Limited, a consultancy company that identifies energy reduction strategies for companies in the private sector. The company specialises in modelling energy consumption, outputting related carbon emissions and developing scenarios that feature a range of opportunities to reduce energy consumption and reduce emissions. It took over 12 months until the company had developed its systems and established a foundation upon which successful commercial work could be undertaken. 

As the sole director of De-energise I manage the strategic development of the business and engage with the consultancy aspect of our work. Although I read Marine Environmental Science at UoP, I enjoyed the aspects of my course that related more closely to climate change and carbon management, during the final two years of my course I opted for units that were closer to this area of study. My degree at UoP provided the inspiration to establish De-energise. 

Studying at the University of Portsmouth  requires a lot of hard work and commitment, but the rewards obtained as a result are worth the effort many times over.

Trainee Asbestos Analyst and Surveyor

Sam Bartlett

BSc Environmental Science

I am currently working for an environmental consultancy as a trainee asbestos analyst and surveyor. My work involves identifying and sampling known or suspected asbestos containing materials (ACM’s) within sites that are due for maintenance, refurbishment or demolition. Using various microscope and laboratory techniques to identify the type of asbestos present and how best to prevent/control/mitigate the release of airborne fibres. I also become involved during the removal works of the ACM’s, providing various types of air monitoring assessments, such as leak testing of the enclosure surrounding the removal works, personal testing of exposure levels to removal contractors, and providing certificates of reoccupation once removal, cleaning and air quality assessments have been completed and are satisfactory. 

My degree provided me with the basic skills to undertake air monitoring assessments and some integral knowledge of asbestos, its uses, dangers and management issues. The note taking and technical drawing skills have aided me in completing on-site paperwork, ensuring relevant details are included and are consistent. The analytical abilities developed during the degree have also proven essential to my work. I couldn’t recommend studying at the University of Portsmouth enough.