Let’s continue with the introduction of NATURE project’s PhD students. This week is Claire Morand’s turn’s turn! 🌟

Claire comes from France and holds a master’s degree in Materials and Chemistry from ENSMAC in Bordeaux. She started at POLYKEY in September 2021 a doctorate focused on the synthesis of fully bio-based unsaturated polyesters for additive manufacturing. After a year of working on polymerisation techniques and organocatalysis in collaboration with the UPV/EHU, she moved to the University of Birmingham, in the Dove’s Research Group, to use the materials she synthesised in additive manufacturing.

During her scientific journey, she synthesised unsaturated polyesters derived from maleic acid, controlling the isomerisation ratio in the final polyesters through catalyst selection. These 100% bio-based polyesters were successfully used as material for printing complex 3D objects. 🌿 Two publications are in preparation. ✍

She participated in international conferences each year where she had the opportunity to disseminate her research through posters and oral presentations. Claire learned Spanish and is now fluent in this language, she also discovered CrossFit training and weightlifting in which she found a new passion and a great community. 🏋‍♀️

Claire is planning to defend her thesis in February 2025! After this intense scientific and human adventure, she looks forward to exploring new professional opportunities by contributing to innovative projects in the polymer field, so have a look at her profile. 👩‍🔬