Viking alum Mike Bates, of Topsfield, graduated from the Salem State Chemistry and Physics Department in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and minors in biology and physics.
Mike went on to pursue a PhD in chemistry at Northeastern University and now works as a research and development scientist. He credits the faculty and coursework in the Salem State chemistry and physics department for helping him discover his passion for science. We spoke to Mike to learn more about his educational journey and career path:
How has your chemistry and physics degree helped you in your professional life?
“My chemistry and physics degree was a gateway to graduate school and a career as a research and development scientist. After graduating from Salem State in 2009, I pursued a PhD in chemistry with a focus on electrochemistry and materials science at Northeastern University. I received my PhD in 2015.”
How have you used your chemistry and physics degree in a job or internship?
“I have worked as a senior scientist for NanoTerra and a staff scientist for Thermo Fisher Scientific.”
Tell us about your experience with the Salem State Chemistry and Physics Department:
“The chemistry and physics department provided me with not only knowledge and career training, but role models, supportive peers, and a place to discover my passion for science.”
“I also met my wife in the Chem Society clubhouse in Meier Hall!”
What was your favorite part about studying in the Chemistry and Physics Department?
“The chemistry and physics courses at Salem State provided experience working with scientific equipment and communicating my results. The professors challenged me to think critically and work independently. My favorite part was the research projects: designing experiments, optimizing methods, and analyzing results on topics such as "analysis of protein supplements" or "developing novel catalysts for bio-diesel synthesis (from Burger King cooking grease).”
Did you have any favorite classes?
“My favorite class was Instrumental Analysis. My favorite professors were Christine and Ronald MacTaylor.”
Tell us about your time serving in the military. When did you serve and why?
“I joke with my friends that it took me longer to complete my undergrad degree than it did to complete my PhD, but this is because I chose to join the Massachusetts Army National Guard part-way through my time at ֱ. Once the GI Bill benefits were available to me, there was no real rush to finish college quickly because my tuition was paid by the military and I received a stipend to ‘work’ as a full-time student.”
“First I took a semester off for basic training, and later I took three semesters off to mobilize and deploy to a peacekeeping mission in the Balkans. During my time overseas, our unit did more than provide security to the region. We built roads, repaired schools, and facilitated donations of clothing and educational supplies to communities in need.”
Tell us about your experience at the Veterans Affairs office at Salem State.
“When I returned to the US to complete my education, the Veterans Affairs (VA) office at SSU was an amazing asset to help me utilize my GI Bill benefits. Not only did my benefits cover 100% of my tuition costs, but I received a stipend and housing allowance, so I was essentially paid to complete my degree. This allowed me to explore courses that I wouldn't have taken if I'd been in a rush to graduate and keep my student loans to a minimum. I was able to get a double minor in biology and physics along with my ACS-certified chemistry degree.”
Would you recommend the Salem State Chemistry and Physics Department to others?
“Absolutely! The department of chemistry and physics at Salem State has always been so much more than professors, classes and labs. It's a community with a patient and nurturing culture.”
“I was first introduced to STEM outreach while participating in events organized by Professor Christine MacTaylor. I really enjoyed making science fun and engaging for kids, and now I run a Community Action Council at Thermo Fisher where I get to do lots of STEM outreach with local schools and Boys and Girls Clubs.”