Thomas Sim

Why did you decide to study a Masters by Research at the University of Leeds?

I chose to do a Masters by Research because I enjoyed research at an undergraduate level and wanted to decide if further research was for me. Another factor was the fees, an MbR is less than half the cost of a taught masters. I chose Leeds because it is a great city and the university is a highly ranked world leader in environmental research. 

What has been the best aspect of studying on your course and at the University so far and why?

Leeds has a great research environment and my project supervisors have been very supportive, but the best aspect of being an MbR student has been the opportunity to get involved with research groups such as Leeds Quaternary, Yorkshire Palaeo, Leeds Peat Club and the River Basin Processes and Management cluster.

Tell us about some of the exciting projects you have completed.

A Masters by Research is focused on one big project – mine is investigating the response or wetlands in the Canadian high Arctic to rapid twentieth century climate warming using a palaeoenvironmental approach. Through Leeds Peat Club and Leeds Quaternary I’ve also had the opportunity to be part of a project on Ilkley Moor engaging with the local community and taking peat cores to investigate the environmental history of the site.   

What does Leeds as a city have to offer students?

Leeds is a fantastic place to be a student, there is a lively night life, loads of university or local sports teams to get involved in and the Yorkshire dales are only a short train ride away.

What are your ambitions for the future?

In the future I hope to continue enjoying research, first with a PhD here at Leeds starting October 2018 following on from my Masters and then in academia or the private sector.

What experiences at Leeds do you think will help you in your future career?

I think being involved with a number of research groups here at Leeds, getting (paid!) experience demonstrating on undergraduate modules and hopefully getting a scientific publication out of my Masters project will help with my future career.

What would you say to students coming to do the same course?

To incoming students I would say: An MbR is a unique course that give you freedom to conduct your own research, but with the support of your supervisors when you need it. There are also opportunities to demonstrate and get involved/hear about other research in the university through well organised and friendly groups.