Dr Rebecca Rae is a Research Specialist from the School of Chemistry. She completed her PhD in 2021 from the University of Edinburgh, working on cementitious materials for environmental applications, specifically the removal of the toxic elements chromium and selenium from the aquatic environment.
After finishing her PhD she remained at the University of Edinburgh, as a postdoctoral research associate. Her postdoc involved setting up and managing a new X-ray diffraction facility with state-of-the-art capabilities, including in-situ sample measurement at variable temperatures and humidities. She is an expert in powder X-ray diffraction and materials chemistry characterisation.
Rebecca was employed by Edinburgh Innovations (the commercialisation service for the University) between 2022 and 2025 as a Technical Support Officer, carrying out a variety of consultancy projects with external and industrial partners. Some projects include: analysis of cladding materials, synthesis of phase change materials, and characterisation of complex materials. This advanced her skills of engaging with industry and developing external projects.
In August 2025, Rebecca started her current role as Research Specialist in Materials Chemistry at the University and continues to be interested in establishing collaborations with industry and other external partners. She is working with the Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership to enhance the cross-over with ECFP and the capabilities of the School of Chemistry.