Joceline Kamajaya

Hi everyone! I’m Joceline, a second-year PhD student in Chemistry from Indonesia. Before starting my PhD, I completed a foundation year at the Leeds International Study Centre and earned my MChem in Medicinal Chemistry with a Year in Industry at the University of Leeds. I studied the National Curriculum in Indonesia, which is why I needed to complete the foundation year.

I chose to study at the University of Leeds for several reasons. Firstly, the university is renowned for its excellent research quality and state-of-the-art facilities, both of which are vital for my career path. Additionally, Leeds students are among the most employable in the UK, reflecting the strong support provided by the Careers Centre. Finally, the city itself is multicultural, with diverse communities that have allowed me to interact with and build relationships with people from all over the globe.

During my undergraduate studies, I actively participated in various initiatives to grow and develop transferable skills. In my first year, I served as an Intercultural Ambassador, collaborating with other students to plan and run an event for International Women’s Day. I also acted as a Course Representative for the first two years of my degree.

In my third year, I completed a placement at the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI), where I worked in the Formulations Business Unit under the Automation and Digital team. During this year, my focus was on automation and machine learning within the pharmaceutical industry. In my final year, I conducted a research project in a similar area and served as a Student Project Assistant at the Leeds Institute of Teaching Excellence, where I helped deliver research related to student education and experience. These experiences, while challenging, significantly enhanced my university journey!

 All these various experiences allowed me to grow both technical and transferable skills. Importantly, it helped me grow my confidence and independence, both of which were essential to be a great researcher! This led to an award I received, the Salter’s Insitute Graduate Awards, where I was chosen as one of the top chemistry and chemical engineering graduates in 2023. I chose to continue my studies in University of Leeds as my research group and project aligned greatly with my research interests, and the School of Chemistry has great links with various industrial partners. Not to mention, I love the city and the friends that I had made here. 

 Outside of the university, I enjoy trying out new food and cuisine around the city. Kirkgate Market is one of my favourite food spots in the city, as you get to try a variety of cuisines at a great price. I also enjoy being around Leeds Dock, as it is a beautiful area and usually bustling with people during the weekend. Ever since I’ve arrived in Leeds, the city has changed and more restaurants have opened up, which is incredibly exciting. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student here in the University of Leeds, and I am excited to pursue further research here! Do reach out to me if you have any questions via UniBuddy or email, joceline-link@leeds.ac.uk - I am more than happy to help!