This year we were fortunate to have three fantastic students join us for their final year (Part II) research projects. Their projects were as varied as their personalities and interests. Elisabeth Edwards (Corpus Christi College) worked on photoelectron spectroscopy of gallium oxide and how crystal orientation, amorphicity, and isotope introduction influence the electronic structure and resulting photoelectron spectra. Emma Wroe (St Edmund Hall) explored how pH and temperature influence the copper oxide nanostructures synthesised through a simple solution-based route and how this modulates their glucose sensing ability. Josh Wise (Wadham College) managed to stabilise a rare mixed-metal post transition metal oxide in the form of thin films.

We are currently preparing publications from all three projects, a fact that reflects the determination and productivity of all three students. Whilst we congratulate Elisabeth, Emma and Josh on their success, we are also sad to see them finish their Part II time with us. But as all group members know, you might finish your degree, but you never truly leave the group (and Elisabeth in particular is fulfilling this, by already having a confirmed DPhil place with us in October).