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Welcome! I’m Vickie

I am an environmental scientist and an active member of the educational outreach community with a passion for outdoor activities. I invite you to look around to learn a little more about me.

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About Me

I was born and raised in Derbyshire, England. My mother fostered my curiosity for everything and anything to do with science from an early age, and my father always challenged me intellectually. Throughout my work in educational outreach and higher education in environmental science I have approached any projects with determination, enthusiasm, and critical thinking. I thrive on challenges and excel when working with other people to solve problems. If you’re interested in learning more about me, keep reading or get in touch.

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Why Environmental Science?

Our climate and oceans are changing at an alarming rate. To be able to implement policies to prevent further damage to our beautiful planet we need to understand the mechanisms of our natural world. This is my motivation for doing a PhD in Atmospheric Chemistry.

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Why Educational Outreach?

Education for children as well as adults is incredibly important, it is a life-long process that allows us to grow into our own skin and allows us to help others. I am a firm believer that education is the key to solving the world's major problems.

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My Qualities

Collaborative

During my PhD I was lucky enough to work with a wide range of scientists and crew onboard the ice-breaker CCGS Amundsen as part of the NETCARE project. This experience made me realise how important it is to work with others to achieve a collective goal and I thoroughly enjoyed it!

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Curious

As a scientist I am naturally very curious about the world around me. I was often described by my teachers as "the one with all the questions"! I believe that science is connected to all aspects of life. Through asking questions with an open-mind our capacity to grow together as human beings becomes unlimited.

Compassionate

Through my extensive volunteer work with Vancouver Adaptive Snowsports, the Girl Guides of Canada, UBC Chemistry outreach at Science World, and the UBC Science 101 course I have learnt that the best way to work with other people from all walks of life is to be compassionate and non-judgemental.

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Interests and Hobbies

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My Professional Experience

Researcher, UBC

December 2018 - present

I am currently responsible for compiling, interpreting, and analysing data. I am also writing and editing papers for academic publication.

Teaching Assistant, UBC

September 2013 - April 2018

Lead a group of 15 undergraduate students to complete practical laboratory experiments. Won 2 awards for being the best teaching assistant based on the undergraduates’ feedback.

Field assistant, Environment Canada

October 2015

Analysed air quality data from Thermo Scientific gas monitoring instruments to identify car emissions and concentrations. Set up, maintained, and calibrated instruments used in a roadside field campaign in Vancouver to collect data on several atmospheric variables.

Science Teacher, Feltham Community College

August 2012 - August 2013

Educated children (aged 11-16) from a disadvantaged area in London, UK, in Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Gained valuable time management skills.

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PhD Chemistry, UBC

September 2013 - present

I implemented laboratory, field-work and research skills to write a thesis on the topic of “Ice nucleation in the Canadian Arctic”.

PGCE, Canterbury University

June 2012 - June 2013

I simultaneously completed a PGCE whilst teaching full-time at Feltham School.

MPhil Environmental Science, Cambridge University

September 2009 - August 2010

I implemented research skills to write a thesis on the topic of “Atmospheric Chemistry of Volcanic Plumes”.

MChem Chemistry, Durham University

September 2004 - June 2008

I received a first class honours degree in Chemistry with a minor in French.

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"Make the best of every situation"

My Mum

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