Dr Mark Barrow

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick

Scientific Background

Research Interests

My research focuses upon the usage of Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR MS) for the ultrahigh resolution of complex mixtures. This includes developing new experimental approaches, new data processing and visualisation methods, and applications across a wide range of themes. Some of the topics have consisted of: petroleum and its fractions (e.g. asphaltenes), fuels, pyrolysis bio-oils/biofuels, archaeological samples, and environmental samples. Environmental analysis has included water samples, sediment cores for depth profiling, and more. We collaborate with a wide range of academic researchers and organizations across the world, such as the British Geological Survey, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and others. Our collaborators span Europe, North America, South America, and Asia. My research group has typically had a near even coverage of international and UK students, as well as female and male students. In 2019, we were very pleased to set a world record for the highest number of assignments within a complex sample: 244,779 unique molecular formulae. We are very fortunate to be very well equipped; our laboratory houses a 12 T FTICR mass spectrometer (one of only two in the UK) and, more recently, also a 15 T FTICR mass spectrometer, which is the highest magnetic field FTICR instrument in the UK and the only one in the country.

Research Groups

Warwick Environmental Systems Interdisciplinary Centre (WESIC)

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: collaborative, supportive, and inclusive.

Provision of Training

When initially joining the research group, I provide an introduction to the field, the research group, the laboratory, the instrumentation, and suggested reading. The new student then "shadows" more experienced group members, before then beginning to the use the instrumentation for themselves under supervision. When ready, we "sign people off" to say they are ready to use the instrument on their own. Our research group has a friendly, supportive, and collaborative atmosphere, where my group members and I are always happy to help. Our approach to training has worked well for many years and ensured that everyone gets the training they need, receives support, is kept safe, works towards increasing independence, and can learn at the rate that is appropriate for them.

Progression Monitoring and Management

New starters will be given close direction and support directly from me and from my research group. As the students improve their skills, learn more about the field, and grow in confidence, they will become increasingly able to work independently and provide input into the direction of their own projects, which is a vital skill if continuing within a research environment after their PhD, whether in academia or in industry. I treat members of my research group as individuals, with different personalities and learning styles. What works well for one person may not be right for another. I'm very keen to see each student reach their potential and so I will push individuals to reach levels that are right for them.

Communication

We have weekly joint group meetings with Pete O'Connor's group too, as we share the same facilities, as well as regular in-person meetings and the option for online meetings if needed for any reason. Informally, I have an open door policy so that students are always very welcome to talk to me in my office and I am always happy to chat in the student's office or the laboratory too. Two-way communication is important and we ensure we can chat using a variety of approaches, such as in-person in my office, in-person in their office or the laboratory, via E-Mail, and via Teams (both text chats or video meetings).

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per week. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Work Patterns

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings) I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5,000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Primary supervisor for:

Project Title

See the PhD Opportunities section to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.

Please Note: The main page lists projects via BBSRC Research Theme(s) quoted and then relevant Topic(s).

Project Title

Secondary Supervisor(s):

University of Registration:

BBSRC Research Themes:

Sustainable Agriculture and Food (Animal Health and Welfare, Microbial Food Safety, Plant and Crop Science)
Renewable Resources and Clean Growth (Bio-energy, Industrial Biotechnology)
Understanding the Rules of Life (Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Plant Science, Soil Science, Stem Cells, Structural Biology, Systems Biology)
Integrated Understanding of Health (Ageing, Diet and Health, Pharmaceuticals, Regenerative Biology)

Project Outline

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Co-supervisor on a project / projects with supervisor name + link.