Yea Eun Moon, the Dr Theo George Wilson scholarship recipient shares her thoughts on her journey so far on the MRes in Molecular Engineering course.

We spoke with Yea Eun Moon, a recipient of the Dr Theo George Wilson Masters Scholarship at The Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering, about her academic journey, her experiences on the MRes in Molecular Engineering course, and her aspirations for the future.  

Tell us a bit about your background before Imperial. 

“I studied chemical engineering and material science at Ewha Womans University in South Korea,” Yea Eun began. “Driven by a passion for research, I worked as an R&D intern in various labs and even at a start-up company. These experiences helped me explore my interests and deepened my desire to pursue further studies.” 

Why did you choose to study at Imperial? 

The MRes programme’s structure is so unique. I believe this real-world experience will be invaluable Yea Eun Moon Dr Theo George Wilson scholarship recipient

Yea Eun highlighted two key reasons for choosing Imperial: “Firstly, I wanted to study at a university with a strong focus on engineering, and Imperial fits that perfectly. Secondly, the MRes programme’s structure is so unique—it combines academic lectures with a six-month research project in partnership with an external organisation. I believe this real-world experience will be invaluable.”  

Why the MRes in Molecular Engineering? 

“I studied chemical engineering and material science during my undergraduate degree, and I wanted to build on this foundation with a focus on chemistry,” she explained. “In the future, I aspire to work in research, so gaining hands-on research experience through an MRes was essential for me. The Molecular Engineering programme stood out as it aligns closely with my interests and career goals.”  

What are your current research interests? 

“My current interest lies in medical and diagnostic materials,” Yea Eun shared enthusiastically. “I’ve always dreamed of working on research that could improve people’s lives. That’s why I applied for a research project with Proton Dx, aiming to contribute to advancements in diagnostics and healthcare.” 

How are you finding the course so far? 

Everyone has different strengths, and we support one another. It’s a great environment for collaboration Yea Eun Moon Dr Theo George Wilson scholarship recipient

“The best part of the MRes course is the diversity of the students and the small group setting,” she said. “Because the course covers such a wide range of fields, we’re able to learn from each other. Everyone has different strengths, and we support one another. It’s a great environment for collaboration.” 

What are you most looking forward to on the course? 

“I’m excited about the research project with an external partner that starts in February,” she said. “One of my main goals for this programme is to gain research experience, and I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned so far to a real-world challenge.” 

How has the Dr Theo George Wilson masters scholarship supported you? 

“This is my first time studying abroad, so I had many concerns about making the decision to come to the UK. Receiving the scholarship gave me the confidence to pursue my studies. It also felt like recognition of my past efforts and has motivated me to be even more passionate about my research.” 

What are your career aspirations after completing your degree? 

“In the future, I want to work as a researcher in the field of medical and diagnostic materials,” she said. “I hope to contribute to advancements in this area and make a difference in people’s lives.”  

How has the multidisciplinary nature of the course benefited you? 

“Studying areas outside my background has been challenging, but I’ve realised that gaining new knowledge is the whole purpose of a master’s degree,” Yea Eun reflected. “This experience has broadened my expertise and will help me approach problems from different perspectives in the future.” 

The Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering is proud to support passionate students like Yea Eun through the Dr Theo George Wilson Masters Scholarship, fostering innovation and excellence in molecular engineering. Find out more about the Dr Theo George Wilson scholarship and the Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering Scholarship. You can also apply for the Masters in Molecular Engineering for October 2025 entry.   

Receiving the scholarship gave me the confidence to pursue my studies. It also felt like recognition of my past efforts and has motivated me to be even more passionate about my research. Yea Eun Moon Dr Theo George Wilson scholarship recipient

The Molecular Engineering MRes programme is inherently interdisciplinary, equipping students with the expertise to conduct research at the interface of science and engineering, whether in academia or industry. The taught component begins with an introduction to molecular science and engineering, focusing on designing at the molecular level to develop improved materials, systems, and processes.  

Students gain knowledge in areas such as design, modelling, synthesis, characterisation, and manufacturing of molecules and materials, alongside insights into machine learning, process modelling, and business strategies. This is followed by a 6-month research project conducted in collaboration with industry, including an industrial placement. 

The programme attracts students from diverse academic backgrounds, including chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, physics, bioengineering, and even mechanical and electrical engineering. Delivered by the Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering (IMSE), this master’s course prepares graduates to thrive in multidisciplinary environments and tackle real-world challenges.