Ken Collins BSc Chemistry, 1972

Senior Research Fellow and Diving Officer

I took the opportunity to join the Students Union societies which created interesting social opportunities.

I chose to study BSc Chemistry because of my sheer love of the subject. I liked the city of Southampton, so decided to study there for my degree. The best thing about being located at the Highfield Campus is that everything is in easy reach.

The practical work and research projects were what I enjoyed most about my degree. I visited chemistry labs in an industrial setting; which helped me to understand how chemistry is applied outside of the classroom. I also took the opportunity to join the Students Union societies which created interesting social opportunities. As a result of my time at Southampton, I became determined to continue research and I now work within Ocean and Earth Science, University of Southampton as a Senior Research Fellow and Diving Officer.

As part of my current role, I am interested in artificial reefs for fisheries, seagrass, sharks and Galapagos marine invasive species. My job is certainly unique! I enjoy worldwide travel and the diversity of my research interests is really exciting. At present, my ambition is to continue to support the Charles Darwin Research Station in Galapagos by running student field courses there. My career highlight to date has been enabling the declaration of the Galapagos Marine Reserve as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

My advice to students starting their degree at Southampton? Enjoy both the social and academic aspects, it will be a memorable time. As for careers advice; take advantage of any opportunities to visit potential employers and look for internships. I enjoyed my time at University of Southampton immensely and wouldn’t change a thing!