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To the lab and beyond: chemists of the future invited to open day at University of Reading – University of Reading

Chemistry students at the University of Reading are holding an open evening to attract more budding scientists to study the subject at degree level. The student Chemistry Society will throw open its doors later this month for anyone wanting to know the ins and outs of a career in chemistry, revealing how a degree in the subject can be used once you've progressed from lab experiments and Bunsen burners. Organised by undergraduates here at the University the event forms part of the Royal Society of Chemistry's initiative 'Chemistry for our Future' which aims to reach out to schools and colleges and encourage students into the chemical sciences. James McDonald, President of the Chemistry Society and one of the organisers of the evening said: "This is a rare opportunity to attend a careers exhibition aimed solely at graduates in Chemistry and related disciplines. The scope of this evening extends beyond current university students and would be beneficial to anyone interested in entering or returning to the field of the chemical sciences. "This is the first exhibition we have held focussed solely on careers within Chemistry. Often careers exhibitions are too general, and we are really trying to promote the importance and enjoyment of our subject." Dr Elizabeth Page, of the Department of Chemistry, said: "This event is a 'must' for anyone at school or college wanting to know what careers lead from studying chemical sciences. Chemistry is one of the most sought-after degree qualifications for all types of employers, and chemistry students go on to a range of careers, not just in the chemical industry but in IT, in the City, accountancy, law, teaching and many other destinations." There are several local employers attending the event who will be able to talk about opportunities with their companies. A national science-based employment company, Lab Support UK, will be there to talk about the types of jobs in science available both with and without a degree. There are talks on opportunities in teaching chemistry, in research, how to apply for courses and hands on demos and displays. The event runs from 3-7pm on Wednesday 21st February in the Department of Chemistry on the Whiteknights campus. There are activities and talks happening throughout the afternoon and evening. For more details contact James McDonald on 07843 491 884 or via email, or Dr Elizabeth Page on 0118 3788457. Any employers interested in exhibiting should get in touch as soon as possible. ends For media enquiries only, please contact Lucy Ferguson, the University's senior press officer on: (Tel) 0118 378 7388 (Email) L.Ferguson@reading.ac.uk Notes to Editors: The University of Reading is one of the foremost research-led universities in the UK. Founded in the nineteenth century and gaining a Royal Charter in 1926, we offer a wide range of programmes from the pure and applied sciences to languages, social sciences and fine art. New research and the latest thinking continually feed into undergraduate teaching, with our academic staff working at the forefront of their fields of expertise. For further information visit the University of Reading website