Research Masters (MRes) in Hydrogeology at the University of Bristol
My research looks into recharge, sources of salinity and oxidation chemistry in aquifers on low-lying islands, such as those in the Pacific and Caribbean. I developed an interest in groundwater chemistry after working in mine-water remediation during my undergraduate year in industry. I chose to study for my masters at Bristol partly because of my close connection to the city but also because of the world-class research facilities and opportunities for fieldwork. Most of my lab work at Bristol is based in the geographical sciences research laboratory, a world-class facility that includes instruments for analyzing chemicals in water samples as well as isotopes and dissolved gases. The facility also includes a number of temperature-controlled labs, which are particularly important for the types of isotopes I focus on. My fieldwork so far has been based on North Andros in the Bahamas, an island with very diverse environments and variable weather. These factors make it a great analogue for many similar low-lying islands.
My primary motivation for choosing a masters by research was a sense of independence. I always found during my undergraduate degree that the most rewarding projects were those where I had some choice in the approach I took. Through my MRes I’ve had the opportunity to undertake independent fieldwork abroad and learn how to analyse water chemistry from scratch. I’ve also had responsibility for laboratory instruments such as mass spectrometers and chromatographs to carry out my analysis. Most importantly though, I’ve been able to focus my research on what truly interests me; often the self-funded nature of an MRes means you can have more freedom to take your research in the direction you want. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my MRes so far and am currently in the process of transitioning into a PhD at Bristol in the same research area. If you like the idea of a career in research but aren’t sure enough to pursue a 3-4 year PhD research project yet, a 1-year research Master’s degree is a great way to test the water!