Jacob is a recent graduate in MSc Geochemistry now working as a laboratory technician at British Lithium in Cornwall.
In the first few years of my undergraduate geology degree at the University of Plymouth, I was unsure on what career path I would like to follow. I attended many career fairs and did not feel inspired by the various roles I heard about. However, I knew I was very interested in igneous petrology and the mineral exploration industry. I was considering postgraduate study, but was unsure because it’s a big financial jump. To gain experience and insight into the industry I pursued an internship at the mineral exploration company British lithium. Through the experience, I realised I was less interested in exploration geology and much more interested in geochemical analysis. I completed the internship very motivated to work in geochemistry, whether in industry, or research.
To give me knowledge and the applicable skills to have a career within geochemistry I applied for the MSc Geochemistry at the University of St. Andrews. I had not studied A-level maths or chemistry and felt that the various modules that the MSc offered would equip me with mathematical and critical thinking skills that I needed, applied to the context of mineral exploration. I also chose modules that simply interested me, such as planetary science.
My MSc dissertation focussed on critical metals and rare earth element deposits in carbonatites of Southwest Greenland. The deposits within these rocks are becoming more important with the development of e-technology such as electric cars and wind turbines. I studied the stable isotope composition of lithologies in the field area to determine if the crystallisation of rare earth elements is caused by magmatic crystallisation or by later fluid alteration. I really enjoyed using insights from geochemistry to inform mineral exploration, so applied for a laboratory technician role at British Lithium. I am now part of a team on a journey to produce battery grade lithium from Cornish granite.
Thinking back over the last year, while studying for a Masters degree certainly challenged me, I really enjoyed learning about a broad range of subjects in detail. Being part of a small cohort of students was rewarding, and definitely helped develop my interpersonal and communication skills. Overall, the experience has helped me grow as a person and definitely equipped me for the next step in my career.