Chemical Engineering

ProfileRichard ToddPhD ChemicalEngineering, 2003Richard Todd’s thesis projectfocused on the underlyingphysics of a Rapid PressureSwing Adsorption process forseparating oxygen from nitrogenusing air as the feed gas tothe system. His research hastaken him all over the world.Currently he is living in the USAdeveloping a cleaner, moreefficient fuel for the future.In charge of developing newtechnologies for the productionof and purification of hydrogen,Richard’s work will be vital inthe push for hydrogen as thefuel for the future.Richard chose Monashbecause, “The postgraduateprogram in chemical engineeringhas very close ties to currentindustrial research, with facilitiesfor laboratory and computerbased research that are asgood as any other researchinstitute in the world. I learneda lot that I apply in my everydayjob - problem solving, dataanalysis and learning skillswere all enhanced by mypostgraduate experience.”As well as receiving ascholarship, Richard workedpart-time in the Departmentof Chemical Engineering as atutor which helped supplementhis income and looked greaton his resume. His advice toprospective research studentsis, “Choose an area thatinterests you, maybe an areathat you would like to specializein after completing. The PhDis your sole responsibility, andyou are your own boss, so selfmotivation is important.Take it from me, a PhD is avery rewarding process andis well worth the 3 plus yearsof hard work.”www.eng.monash.edu.au/chemeng