Twitter takeover banner. University of Cambridge.
Third year PhD student Alex Rafaniello, a founding member of the Queer in Chemistry Network, took over our Twitter account @ChemCambridge on 16 March 2023.
Good morning Twitter! I’m Alex, a 3rd year PhD student researching novel methodologies in synthetic organic chemistry. Today I’m taking over @ChemCambridge on behalf of the newly formed Queer in Chemistry Network! Our handle: @QiCNetworkCam #ChemTwitter #QueerinSTEM #TransinSTEM pic.twitter.com/iWd9PViGu9
— Cambridge Chemistry (@ChemCambridge) March 16, 2023
Alex synthesises amines in Professor Mathew Gaunt’s group and focuses on finding new methods for synthesis in organic chemistry. The goals of the group are to open up new opportunities in molecular synthesis. On the day of the takeover, Alex was using photochemistry to make amines that have a yellow glow under certain conditions.
Time for a #RealTimeChem interlude – in the lab and using some #photochemistry today to make some amines. The yellow glow is either due to a ternary EDA complex or the yassification of the starting materials #IYKYK pic.twitter.com/QkM5nDge0z
— Cambridge Chemistry (@ChemCambridge) March 16, 2023
Queer in Chemistry Network
Alex is one of the founding members of the Queer in Chemistry Network (QiCN) that started last year. The group is for LGTBQ+ members of the department who want to connect, socialise, and celebrate with other queer chemists. The group has organised a mentorship scheme that partners mentors and mentees together to help students see themselves in academic roles in the future. They also have outreach events such as a stall at the 2023 open day.
Every month @QiCNetworkCam organises a coffee morning open to all staff & students who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or allies. It’s a great way to meet some new people, catch up with friends from across the department and, of course, spill some tea. pic.twitter.com/wbxICRzmXT
— Cambridge Chemistry (@ChemCambridge) March 16, 2023
We're ready to welcome you to the @ChemCambridge open day! Come up to the Cybercafe to build some molecules and hang out with some fabulous ppl 🌈🧪 #QueerinSTEM #LGBTinSTEM pic.twitter.com/aNbbbzWgAu
— Queer in Chemistry Network Cambridge (@QiCNetworkCam) March 18, 2023
Thanks for tuning in everyone, and thanks to the Comms team @ChemCambridge for letting me overshare with you all today! Be sure to follow us @QiCNetworkCam for all upcoming LGBTQ+ themed events – think film nights, Pride events and more! pic.twitter.com/nNlfsYlyV8
— Cambridge Chemistry (@ChemCambridge) March 16, 2023