My master’s degree gave me the skills and experience to take the next step into doctoral research
I studied MSc in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield. Before that, I completed a BEng in the same subject in China. During my undergraduate studies, I joined a research group working on first-principles modelling for my thesis, and I was immediately fascinated by computational approaches to materials. At the time, I didn’t have the chance to continue into graduate study, so I went into industry for a while.
After working in the industry I decided to go back to academia and landed a role as a research assistant in an experimental group, learning about atom probe tomography and gaining hands-on experience with the practical side of materials research. Experiencing both experimental and computational approaches helped me realise that my true passion lies in computational materials science.
When I was looking at master’s programmes, Sheffield really stood out. I had offers from three universities in the UK, but the MSc in Materials Science and Engineering at Sheffield was the best fit for my goals. The course offered exactly the balance I was looking for: core modules to build a solid foundation and the flexible elective modules that allowed me to focus on subjects I am interested in and the research project gave me the computational focus I wanted. The course gave me the right balance of broad knowledge, depth, and freedom to specialise, and the programme’s strong reputation made it an easy choice.
My time at Sheffield as an international student was fantastic. The University has a really international feel, and I enjoyed meeting and working with students from all over the world. Lecturers were always happy to answer questions in class, during breaks, or by email afterwards, and their encouragement kept me motivated. Often, they would say, “That’s a really good question,” which made me feel supported and challenged at the same time. I was also part of the staff–student committee and saw first-hand how responsive the University is. Even small issues were taken seriously and solved quickly, which made me feel that student voices really matter.
The highlight of my studies was my individual research project in first-principles materials modelling, combining density functional theory with machine learning to build a machine-learning interatomic potential (MLIP) and test its transferability. It was a challenging but very rewarding project — I ran over 10,000 calculations using CASTEP, a first principles calculation package, and made full use of Sheffield’s High-Performance Computing facilities. Along the way, I learned Python programming and BASH scripting, gained extensive experience with CASTEP, and built confidence in handling large-scale data and advanced computational methods. These skills directly prepared me for my doctoral research.
The best thing about the course was that I was studying a subject I love, in a place I admire, with academics I respect. Outside of my studies, I joined the University’s badminton society and became part of the squad. Badminton has been my sport for many years, and being part of the team was a fun way to stay active, challenge myself, and meet new people.
My advice for anyone thinking about this MSc is to research the programme and plan your elective modules carefully. The flexibility is a big advantage — whether you’re interested in polymers, metals, or inorganic materials, or want to focus on computational or experimental projects, you can build a pathway that fits your interests.
Looking back, my master’s at Sheffield was a crucial step for my career. The skills and experience I gained matched my research interests perfectly and prepared me to take the next step in doctoral research. It gave me the confidence and practical abilities to move forward as a researcher and secure a DPhil in Materials at the University of Oxford.