Last month, Dr Mottram spent a week in Westminster at which she attended functions with Mr Williams to watch him at work, including viewing Prime Minister's Question Time. She also came along to one of Mr Williams' advice surgeries to get a feel for the needs of some of his constituents and the ways in which he is able to help them.
In the return leg Stephen has spent Friday 16th December in the lab with Dr Mottram. Amongst other things he has met with staff and students at all levels, as well as being shown around the department. Bristol is one of the top-rated chemistry departments in the country, with a 5* grade for research
Stephen Williams said "I haven't been in a chemistry lab since I was sixteen so it was fascinating to see Hazel's work environment. Her experiments on understanding nitrogen compounds in soil and reducing methane emissions from soil could make a real contribution to combating climate change. It was also interesting to meet many of Hazel's colleagues and students to discuss the challenges facing the teaching of chemistry in schools as well as university."
Dr Mottram said "I was fascinated to find out about Stephen's job and how incredibly busy a life he leads. Visiting parliament was particularly interesting as it gave me an understanding of ways in which I could contribute to the parliamentary process, particularly in the areas of science and education. I love explaining my work to new people and hope that I've managed to get across to Stephen the passion for chemistry that exists at Bristol."
