My master’s degree helped me gain international research experience and prepared me for a PhD

I studied an MSc in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield. Before this, I completed my undergraduate degree in Energy Chemical Engineering at Dongguan University of Technology, China. I came to Sheffield to expand my professional knowledge, experience an international research environment, and prepare myself for doctoral study.

I chose Sheffield because of its outstanding global reputation in materials science. The School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering (CMBE) is highly ranked worldwide, and the university is closely connected with advances in sustainability and net-zero technologies — areas that aligned with my academic and career goals. Another important factor was the city itself. Sheffield offered a very safe and welcoming environment, with plenty of green spaces and a beautiful mix of traditional and modern culture. Living there made me feel at ease and supported as an international student.

The teaching was excellent. Professors were not only highly knowledgeable but also very approachable and patient in helping me solve problems. The university also provided valuable career guidance and support through the CMBE department, which helped me think carefully about my future path. Beyond academics, I really appreciated how friendly and supportive the people in Sheffield were — it made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

My master’s research project focused on investigating how different operating conditions affect the efficiency of a proton exchange membrane water electrolyser (PEMWE). The aim was to identify the optimal parameters to improve electrolyser performance for hydrogen production, a key area in clean energy research. I learned how to operate the equipment, produce polarisation curves, and process EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) data using a supercomputer. This project helped me gain practical skills in experimental design, advanced data analysis, and technical reporting, all of which will be essential for my future career.

Alongside the research, the course gave me a strong foundation in specialist areas such as energy generation and storage, and sustainable materials. I also developed international communication and teamwork skills by working with classmates from all over the world on projects and poster presentations. The English writing support for graduate students was especially useful, helping me improve my academic writing and preparing me for PhD applications.

The master’s programme was transformative for me. I gained technical knowledge, research experience, and the ability to collaborate effectively across cultures and disciplines. I plan to return to China to gain further research experience before pursuing a PhD in materials and new energy.

For anyone considering this course, my advice is to make the most of all the opportunities Sheffield offers — from the excellent facilities to the academic support and career services. Plan your time well, especially during the long breaks, to ensure you stay on track with your studies and research. If you are motivated to explore cutting-edge materials science while preparing for an international career, Sheffield is a great place to do it.