Clare Megarity (University of Manchester) attends 75th ISE Conference, Montreal with an award from the SCN

An international travel grant from the Solar Chemicals Network enabled me to accept an invitation to present as keynote speaker, in the bioelectrochemistry section of the annual International Society of Electrochemistry conference (Montreal, August 2024).  The conference theme was “Electrochemistry – Science and Technology for a Sustainable and Better Planet” and electrochemists from across the globe presented an exceptional range of research.  As invited keynote, I had a fantastic slot which kickstarted the bioelectrochemistry session.  I met several high-profile scientists from my field, for example, Donal Leech (University of Galway, Ireland), Nicholas Plumeré (Technical University Munich), Omer Yehezkeli (Technion, Israel), David Hickey (Michigan State University), and Fred Lisdat (Technical University Wildau, Germany); it was a brilliant experience being able to discuss both my own research, and also theirs, in person.  The opportunity to present my research to colleagues beyond my immediate sphere in the UK, was invaluable because I was able to explain specific aspects of my research in more detail and was asked excellent questions that forced me to consider things from different perspectives.  A highlight for me was the plenary lecture delivered by the Nobel Laureate, Professor Rudolf Marcus – simply inspirational.        

Report on the SURFCAT Summer School, Denmark - Sid Halder, Imperial College, London.

Taking part in the SURFCAT Summer School held in Denmark this year has been a highly rewarding experience and attendance was made possible by funding provided from the Solar Chemicals Network. As a first year PhD student, it was a great way to network with fellow researchers and form potential new international collaborations. I was able to present my preliminary research on intercalated MnO2 nanosheet electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction through a flash presentation and poster. The feedback I received from various audiences was invaluable; I now have a more concrete research plan based on suggestions I received at the poster session, as well as more of an idea on the relevant experiments that could be conducted to support my current hypotheses. Specifically, my understanding of intercalation processes has greatly improved after discussions with both beamline scientists and battery researchers. Overall, the summer school was an almost magical experience; brilliant science, excellent food and great venue by the sea. Even the Northern lights and bioluminescent algae decided to make an appearance!

Lin Su, University of Cambridge reports on attending the Gordon Conference 'Molecular Basis of Microbial One-Carobon Metabolism'

Attending the Molecular Basis of Microbial One-Carbon Metabolism Gordon Research Conference (GRC) was an enriching experience, marking my first time at this prestigious event. I had the opportunity to present my recent unpublished work titled "Adapting Gas Fermenting Bacteria for Light-Driven Domino Valorization of CO2." This study explores the integration of photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into syngas, followed by biocatalytic conversion into valuable C2 products. The innovative approach was well-received by conference attendees, particularly for its potential to advance CO2 utilization technologies.

The conference provided valuable feedback, especially highlighting areas where our research could benefit from deeper insights into the molecular biology of gas-fermenting bacteria. This feedback will be instrumental in guiding the future direction of our work, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the biological mechanisms at play.

In addition to the scientific insights, I made meaningful connections with researchers and groups working on related topics. These interactions have already led to discussions about potential collaborative projects, which I am excited to explore further.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Solar Chemicals Network for the Travel Grant, which made my attendance possible. Without their support, participating in this conference would have been financially challenging.