Staff Spotlight - Joe Burman
Science and biotechnology are major growth industries in Scotland, which should come as no surprise, given the global reputation this country has for innovation and technological leadership. Our campus is fitted with excellent laboratories, fully equipped to deliver a range of science courses to help students learn in a comfortable and professional environment. In the blog this week, we get to meet Joe - who recently started lecturing in our science department.
Tell us about yourself?
My name is Joe Burman, I am a biological scientist and ecologist originally from Kent in south-east England. I’ve been lecturing in the Life Sciences at Canterbury Christ Church University for the last 10 years and I have just recently started at Perth College UHI. Before this, I was a postdoctoral researcher at the Swedish University of Agricultural Science in Alnarp, Sweden.
What is your role at Perth College UHI? How long have you worked here?
I work as a science lecturer at Perth College UHI - teaching everything from HNC/HND to undergraduate sciences. I came here because I want to give people, regardless of their background or experience, a chance to become a scientist - for example, via our SWAP (Scottish Wider Access Programme) courses. I’ve been working here for only a couple of months so far, but I love how friendly and supportive everyone is at the college and can’t wait to start tutoring students in September.
What’s the best part of your job?
When I see a student who really struggled either in life or in their studies succeed in life, graduate, and get themselves a great job. Feeling I played a small part in helping them through the process gives me a huge sense of satisfaction.
What is a typical day at work like?
I spend most of my time preparing teaching materials, giving lectures, and doing more interactive teaching - including laboratory practical’s and field trips. I also spend a lot of time meeting with my tutees and other students - helping them with everything from ‘how to produce a graph’, to dealing with life changing personal problems. It can be quite the roller-coaster some days, but every day is different and usually rewarding.
What has been your most memorable moment since working at Perth College UHI?
When I realised the Engineering and Aviation department at the college have a full-sized working commercial aeroplane cockpit, as well as aerodynamic simulation kit including wind tunnels! Some of the resources here are great, and I’m going to try and convince them to let me try it out at some point.
What might people be surprised to know about you?
I am an enormous punk rock fan. I love the music, the energy and the politics of punk, and there is nothing like the chaos of a mosh pit to get the heart pumping 😊
Do you have any interesting hobbies?
I keep tarantulas (I have about 20 spiders altogether) and play and collect videogame consoles. My favourite is my original Gameboy Colour.
Favourite type of food?
Bread is my weakness. From focaccia to plain sliced white bread, I love all of it. I’m hoping to counterbalance my bread addiction with more time spent outdoors in Perthshire, walking in nature.
Favourite holiday destination, and why?
I was lucky enough to be able to attend a conference in the Italian Alps a few years back, and this is honestly the most beautiful place I have ever been to. I LOVE being in the mountains. Go there if you get a chance!
Where would you like to travel next?
Honestly, I’m looking forward to exploring more of Scotland. My nan was born in Nairn, and I have spent some time in the Western Isles, but there is so much to see here that I haven’t seen. I’d like to visit Staffa and see some of the incredible wildlife and scenery there.
Favourite book?
‘Going Postal’ by Terry Pratchett. He’s my favourite author by far (RIP Terry), but that book means a lot to me because I was reading it when I met my wife. It’s also the funniest book you will ever read about the Post Office!
Favourite TV show or film?
Breaking Bad is the best TV show ever produced, no question about it. Don’t worry though, even though I am a scientist myself, I have no intention of creating a drug-dealing empire in Perthshire.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I actually wanted to be a vet, but I think gradually became more interested in the living world more broadly, hence becoming a biologist. This was especially true when I discovered the world of insects and microbes! I think it’s good to let your career goals change as you learn and change yourself.
If you were a super-hero, what type of powers would you have?
Flying or teleportation.... maybe both.
First thing you would do if you won £1 million?
Boring answer, pay off my mortgage. But then, I think I’d also get one of those cool camper vans with solar panels on the roof and go exploring.
Who, or what, inspires you?
Mhairi Black, MP for Paisley. She is a young, eloquent, intelligent working-class woman who speaks with passion about making the world a more equal place. She is fantastic.
Happiest memory?
Time spent with my family in South Wales visiting the beautiful beaches of the Gower, the weather was perfect, and I was with my wife and daughter, perfect!
And most embarrassing?
I once went on a field trip, and it was so muddy that it destroyed one of my shoes. I had to walk several miles back through mud with only one shoe. Buy good shoes!
And finally, if someone is interested in studying science at Perth College UHI, what would your advice be to them?
Do it! A big change in your life can be scary (trust me!) but it also opens new opportunities, brings with it new friends, experiences, and new perspectives. Everyone has the potential to be a scientist, so never think you can’t do it too. It just takes time and effort, and if you care enough about it, that time and effort will come easily.
