Student Profile

Martin Duriska

BSc (Hons)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate

Why Monash University?

I chose Monash University because it offered the course I wanted, but locality was also a factor as I live 15 minutes from the Clayton campus.

Before I started my PhD I completed a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Chemistry in 2003 then I traveled to Europe for a year.

What is the focus of your PhD?

I am undertaking a PhD in inorganic chemistry. My research involves making materials which have various functions including gas storage, magnetism and catalysis. This research is in the same area of chemistry that I undertook in my Honours year.  I wanted to continue my research in the area of inorganic chemistry as I find it interesting and challenging.

What do you think are the strengths of the PhD program at Monash University?

The Clayton campus itself has a very good atmosphere and the Doctor of Philosophy program is well set out with a lot of support offered by school and faculty staff.

The University  and Faculty of Science organises and runs seminars relating to various aspects of your PhD, such as Increasing your productivity and Refereeing processes for journal articles and other publications, which are very useful and informative.

What are your perceived benefits of undertaking a PhD?

Undertaking a PhD helps a candidate to develop personally and also helps to develop their research ability. Being a PhD candidate presents you with the opportunity to travel to conferences and seminars within Australia and overseas which in turn helps you to become a better public speaker and to learn how to communicate your work with your peers.

What excites you about your research?

Undertaking a PhD helps to foster the ability to think for yourself. This program allows me to try new ideas and to take my research in new directions. The fact that I am making materials that have never been made before and testing them to see what they can do is exciting.

How do you feel about the level of support from academic and general staff at Monash University?

The level of support offered by the School of Chemistry, the Faculty of Science and Monash University is fantastic. I find that all the staff are very friendly and approachable.  If I ever encounter any problems there is always someone there who is willing to help or know how to solve the problem.