Hi, I'm Sebastian, I'm a creative professional with experience in the communications field. I recently completed my leadership-in-action project in Medellín, Colombia, focused on supporting local non-profits with innovative funding and communication strategies. My Laidlaw research delved into the topic of mental health and communication strategies for older adult populations. I am passionate about community engagement and sustainable solutions, collaborating with diverse teams to drive impactful results. I am now onto my placement year at the University of Leeds, while also continuing my social volunteer work with local organisations such as @sasha_uol and @rainbowjunktion. I'm also always more than happy for a chat but the best results are reaching out on LinkedIn ⭐
I'm a graduate of the MChem with Industrial Placement programme at St Andrews. My research focused on improvements to a Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell (DSSC) process used in the St Andrews undergraduate laboratory and for a brief overview, see my poster, or a deeper dive in my research essay. My six week project was with _makesense Colombia and Picacho con futuro in Medellín to create socially innovative solutions to the challenges of sustainability and circular economy, designing and delivering workshops to understand what these concepts meant to the people and then to explore ways in which their lives intersect with the natural world.
Academic Interests
My research work spans analytical development for industry to the functional properties of exotic metal oxides. I'm curious about most chemistry, from catalysis to macromolecular interactions, but the core concept is always about making processes simpler and more sustainable, be that the production of essential medicines or the conversion of solar energy into something more exciting!
Personal Interests
Outside of my work, you'll catch me swimming, cycling or running (or all three!). I run sessions for my local triathlon club and compete across the UK from sprint distance up to Ironman 70.3 events. I can also be found with a guitar trying to pick up songs from the likes of Maisie Peters or Lizzy McAlpine or in the kitchen cooking something delicious.
I am a junior undergraduate student at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island studying Political Science and Social Analysis and Research intending to attend law school after graduation. I believe in the power of people and am dedicated to creating substantial change socially and systemically. I am interested in utilizing policy, law, journalism, and education to empower marginalized groups to create change and work toward a more equitable society.
Amy is the Programme Director of the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme. She works with universities, NGO’s, government departments, businesses and charity partners to manage and develop programmes which further the Laidlaw Foundation’s purpose – to reduce poverty and inequality by investing in the education of the underprivileged and underrepresented and to develop a new generation of diverse and ethical leaders.
Prior to joining the Laidlaw Foundation, Amy spent 9 years leading the US-UK Fulbright Scholarship Programme, working with students, academics, professionals, and teachers across every discipline. She has gained 15+ years working within Higher Education and is passionate about cultural exchange and the benefits it can bring to impactful research and solving global challenges. Prior to this, she led faculty-led programmes hosting US students in the UK and managed a busy student services. She studied American Studies at Sheffield University and University of Pittsburgh.
Laidlaw Scholar Alumna at Oxford University's Saïd Business School, I'm often found at the piano🎹, mesmerized in a theatre🎭, or painting away the night with friends🎨. If our paths align in interests or work, why not connect? Ping me, and let's connect on LinkedIn.