Zahra Khan
I completed my PhD in chemistry in 2023 at University College London (UCL) and A*STAR (Singapore). I have held positions in the university teaching faculty as well as research in gender-responsive policy before interning at Chemistry World. I have worked on corporate communications - writing blogs and newsletters as well as reference guides. I also have experience with copywriting on social media.
I am interested in science reporting and am passionate about sharing diverse voices in chemistry to a global audience, making the stories inclusive and accessible to all, and inspiring the next generation to pursue science.
I am particularly interested in materials chemistry, climate science and science policy.
ResearchImproving propylene synthesis using light-activated catalysis could cut emissions
Single-atom photocatalyst makes propylene at milder temperatures
CareersFrom professional ballet dancer to quantum chemist
Creativity has been central to James Shee’s career across both art and science
ResearchStretching spider silk increases hydrogen bonding, improving mechanical strength
Computational analysis provides new insights into silk’s mechanical properties that was unavailable experimentally
ResearchCarbon–boron triple bond formed for the first time in a neutral novel molecule
Synthesis could help chemists better understand bonding
ResearchClearest ever picture of worms’ surface chemistry deepens evolutionary understanding
Cutting-edge mass spectrometry of nematodes’ ‘skin’ may reveal new ways to control parasitic infections
ResearchZika virus discovered to alter skin chemistry to entice mosquitoes
Changing the volatiles human skin produces helps enhance viral transmission
ResearchWorking towards an Australian First Nations periodic table
Zahra Khan finds out how a team of scholars is working with the Gadigal to develop a chart that celebrates Indigenous knowledge of the chemical elements
ResearchFirst potential antidote for hydrogen sulfide poisoning created
A novel molecule can work as a multi-gas antidote providing potential treatment for carbon monoxide, cyanide and hydrogen sulfide poisoning
ResearchChemists use AI to uncover pigments used on Berlin Wall murals
Researchers hope work will help to preserve this art
NewsThousands protest higher education budget cuts in the Netherlands
Demonstrations in The Hague were attended by around 20,000 people
NewsCountries announce new steps to reduce methane emissions at Cop29
A new declaration on solid waste has been endorsed by seven of the 10 largest emitters in the organic waste sector
CareersThe benefits of following a PhD with an MBA
The chemists who have achieved professional success by getting business and management degrees
ResearchNew catalytic strategies boost alkene synthesis
Photocatalyst makes complex alkenes from acids, alkanes or alcohols, while a ‘phase-pure’ iron catalyst reduces unwanted Fischer–Tropsch waste products
OpinionObserving Cop28 with a gender lens
Avoid so-called climate solutions that disadvantage the most marginalised
CareersThe early-career engineer showcasing women in the chemical industry
Jordan Riddle explains how embracing change and extra curricular activities has benefited her work in chemical production
ResearchComputer program ‘paints’ porphyrin structures in the style of famous artist
Algorithm turns molecules’ structure into Mondrian-inspired representations
CareersInspiration on a surfboard and in the chemistry classroom
Sarah Gerhardt’s curiosity connects her passions for science, teaching and surfing
NewsElemental analysis under scrutiny again as competition raises accuracy questions
Doubts grow over the standard used by journals as competition highlights 26% failure rate with simple molecule
NewsIndian scheme to provide 300 research grants for women
The announcement made by India’s science and technology minister aims to foster more cross-disciplinary research
ResearchDimetallocene with two different metal centres synthesised for the first time
Molecule first theorised 20 years ago created in the lab