I am currently a Technical officer in the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE), developing and delivering practical teaching to the undergraduates in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. In addition organising Chemistry activities for the Foundation Year students as well as workshops for local schools and academy’s. Prior to working for the University of Chester I held scientific roles in the Reed Paper Group, Akzo Chemicals (formerly Novadel Ltd), Thorn Valves Ltd and for the majority of my career the Shell Group. In all cases, primarily in the company’s Research and Development activity.
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Email
p.sturla@chester.ac.uk -
Telephone
01244 512 317
About Phil Sturla
Prior to joining the FSE in 2014 the majority of my career had been working for the Shell Group, some of that time spent at Thornton Science Park (TSP). As a charted chemist I have gained expertise in biotechnology, drilling (workover & completion fluids), automotive fluids, fuel additives, bitumen and fuels in all these subject areas I have been involved in chemical and physical analysis, technical service and training on a global scale. With a blend of technical experience and a creative flair I am able to use conceptual and quantitate models to solve problems and generate ideas. I have considerable experience in presenting technical and marketing data to colleagues, peers and third parties. My understanding and appreciation of the importance of team dynamics helps motivate other researchers and service providers. As a STEM ambassador I take the opportunity not only to run chemistry workshops at the university but to visit local primary schools to initiate an interest in science.
Teaching
Since taking up the post of technical Officer I have been key in developing and delivering laboratory session (some entirely on my own) in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. In addition being heavily involved in the logistic planning, moving and setting up of the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering activity at Exton Park ensuring delivery to the undergraduates with minimal staff.
From my varied research experience I have been a key player in teaching practical skill particularly in Chemistry (Distillation, FTIR, Filtration & Rheology) to the undergraduates providing tangible links from experimental data and industrial application.
Develops and supports Module laboratory Sessions:-
- SE4001 Professional Skills for Scientist and Engineers.
- SE4007 Chemistry Fundamentals.
- SE 4023 Introduction to Thermodynamics.
- SE4025 Fluid Mechanics and Transport Processes.
- SE4030 Key Skills for Chemists
- SE5013 Separation Processes
- SE5014 Chemical Science.
- SE5049 Analytical Chemistry
- SE 5055 Colloidal Chemistry
Develops, delivers & organises STEM Outreach Workshops “in-house” at FSE and externally at various Schools and Science Fairs.
Research
From the published work it is evident that all the research cited is of an industrial nature.
Whilst at the University of Chester I have provided research support to and number of MRes students in terms of laboratory expertise and extensive guidance in the preparation of Risk Assessment (RA’s) in order that any research work is carried out safely.
Published Work
Succinoglycan A New Biopolymer For The Oilfield, A J Clark-Sturman, Dirk den Otterlaner, Phillip L Sturla Chapter 8 Oilfield Chemistry ACS Symposium Series 396 ISBN 0-8412-1630-4
Clark-Sturman A J, Sturla PL, European Patent 0259939 A2 (1988).
Clark-Sturman A J, Pedley J B, Sturla P L, Int. J. Biol. Macromol, Vol 8,355 (1986)
Qualifications
CChem MRSC - Membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry and a Chartered Chemist -
Certificate of Supplementary Study – Microbiology
IOSH Certificate -Managing Safely
NEBOSH - National General Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety (Management of Health & Safety, Risk Profiling)