My job explained: Development technologist

Liz Ingham describes how she studied and worked at the same time and explains why it was all worth it to get to her current position helping to oil some of the world’s fastest racing cars.

What is your job?

I am a development technologist working on new lubricants for car manufacturers across the globe, but particularly in Japan. I work in the lab, blending new formulations, arranging testing, working with external test houses on standard industry and marketing demonstration tests, and dealing directly with manufacturers. Part of my job also involves supporting and developing new oils for Formula 1 applications. This included supporting the Williams-Cosworth team last season and it was great to know that my oil was being run in one of the most advanced racing cars in the world.

What inspired you to study chemistry?

I had a good teacher at school who encouraged me to study chemistry and I always had an interest in finding out about how things were made. The main reason however, was that I started working before I went to university and as I liked science and maths at school, I got myself a job working in a lab testing fuels. I only had GCSE qualifications at this point, so I chose the most appropriate A-levels and degree related to the job I was doing.

How long did it take to train and what did the training involve?

I studied part-time over three years for my A-levels in maths, physics and chemistry while I was working (and earning money) and I then did a three-year BSc in chemistry at the University of Reading. By the time I left university, I had three A-levels, a degree in chemistry and six years work experience.

What is a typical working day like?

I start between 8.30 and 9am. I have about six or seven on-going projects that I will be working on throughout the day, but I will also get other enquiries from people around the world in the BP Lubricants business, which I will have to look into and provide answers to. I may spend 25-50% of the day in the lab, blending new oils, sorting out samples and submitting them for tests, however, most of the time I am desk-based.

My work involves communicating with colleagues all over the world in marketing, supply and production. I have also been fortunate to travel to Japan, Germany, Sweden, France and around the UK last year as part of my role.

What's the best thing about your job?

I work with a great team of people who are all enthusiastic about science, technology and engineering and all believe in our brands. I never have two days the same and my working environment is flexible so I can work at home if necessary. I also like to see the impact of the work I am doing in the business.

Have there been any challenges in getting to where you are now?

Working and studying at the same time was a challenge. While I studied full-time at university, I went back to my job each holiday, so that I didn’t lose touch with the work I was doing. This meant I didn’t have a proper holiday for three years, but it was all worth it.

What qualities and skills do you think are important for your role?

Good organisational skills, excellent communication skills and having an analytical mind and the ability to make sense of large amounts of data are all useful. A good understanding of engineering and an interest in cars is also very helpful.

What advice would you give to someone following in your footsteps?

Study hard at university and get a good scientific background behind you. Make the most of all the careers advice available to you at university so you are in the best position to get yourself a great job when you finish. Be proactive and approach companies that you are interested in working for, and if you get an interview, make sure you are prepared.

What difference does chemistry make to society?

Chemistry is everywhere, from the plastic bottle of water on your desk to the medicines you take when you feel unwell. I try to make a difference to the environment by developing higher performing lubricants that save you fuel in your car and therefore carbon dioxide being put in to the atmosphere.

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