Jake Howard

Extremely driven, adaptable and resilient, recently qualified PhD Level research scientist with expertise in electrochemical and crystallographic analysis of materials, combining synthesis, advanced characterisation, and experimental method development, in both an academic and industrial setting. Experienced in electrochemical testing, electrocatalysis, corrosion science, and CO₂ reduction, with expertise spanning both high-throughput analytical operations and detailed mechanistic investigations, supported by MATLAB-based data analysis and a broad range of analytical techniques.

PhD & Lab Teaching Assistant at University of Birmingham (2022-01 – 2026-02)

• Investigated the electrochemical and photoelectrochemical Investigated CO₂ reduction, corrosion processes, and interfacial charge-transfer mechanisms on semiconductor, mineral, and alloy surfaces using electrochemical methods supported by crystallographic, spectroscopic, and microscopic characterisation.
• Authored technical reports, conference presentations, and doctoral thesis materials; communicated findings to multidisciplinary and international collaborators.
• Framed and solved open-ended research problems with minimal supervision.

Lab Technician at Premier Food Group (2021-11 – 2022-01)

• Conducted microbiological sampling and culturing for yeast, mould, and bacterial contamination.
• Verified incoming and outgoing products met health, safety, and quality standards.
• Maintained accurate records in line with regulatory and audit requirements.
• Contributed to internal audits and compliance checks.

Lab Technician at Environment Agency (2020-12 – 2021-11)

• Analysed wastewater samples for SARS-CoV-2 signatures during national COVID monitoring programme.
• Performed high-throughput inorganic analysis using spectroscopic, colourimetric, and gravimetric techniques.
• Led workflow redesign for incoming sample handling, improving processing efficiency and traceability.

PhD in Chemistry – University of Birmingham (2022-01 – 2026-02)

Integrated Master's Degree (MChem) in Chemistry – University of Greenwich (2016-09 – 2020-07)