Samuel Harrison
Samuel Harrison has gained valuable research skills, established professional contacts and developed personal friendships during his time in the Physics Department.
Recurring decision
Currently studying for a physics PhD, Samuel Harrison chose to return to Lancaster University after completing his MPhys degree. He recalls the initial reasons why he chose to study at Lancaster: “I decided on here after visiting quite a few universities,” he explains. “What really impressed me is the wide range of research here and the reputation that the Physics Department has developed.”
Samuel soon felt at home at Lancaster, and praises the friendliness of the department. “The staff are very approachable,” he says. “The Department is big enough but not dauntingly so, and you get a chance to get to know everyone.”
Lancaster life
As a keen fell runner, climber and mountaineer, Samuel has benefited from the area of Lancaster and its surroundings. “I was keen not to live in a big city and Lancaster impressed me, as well as its proximity to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales,” he says.
Samuel feels confident that his experience as an undergraduate has prepared him well for Masters level study and beyond. “I’ve learnt a lot from working with solid state physics,” he claims. “It’s been my favourite topic of study during my time here and it’s very fitting that I should study a PhD in the Quantum Nanotechnology group at Lancaster University.”
Excellent facilities
Speaking about his experience at a top 10 university and the physics department’s range of facilities, Samuel is most inspired by the Quantum Technology Centre’s cleanroom, where he has processed samples to study. “Having facilities like this and being able to grow, process and study our samples is a key asset of any top class physics department,” Samuel says.
Realising the dream
Studying at Lancaster at both undergraduate and postgraduate level has allowed Samuel to focus on his preferred area of study as well as taking charge of his future aspirations. “I would love to stay in academia,” he says. “I enjoy the research and the new challenges it brings. Studying at Lancaster has helped to make this possible and will continue to guide me along that path.”
Friendly Physics Department
Since the beginning of his first degree, Samuel has gained valuable research skills and has established professional contacts and personal friendships at the University. “I’d advise prospective students to follow the news on our website and see what kinds of research are going on,” suggests Samuel. “Physics is a friendly and personable Department, and this shouldn’t be understated in its ability to create a working environment that is conducive to the world-leading research we pioneer.
“I love Lancaster because it’s taught me much more than just physics,” Samuel concludes. “I feel better equipped to tackle a wide range of different job roles as a result of my time here."
