Summary
Help get me to America so I can present my research at one of the biggest international chemical conferences with 16 000 scientists in attendance!
About me
I am a PhD chemist coming to the end of my research degree. I have spent the last 3 years researching the potential of light-activated caging groups as tools to probe biological functions. This project has been demanding, both mentally and physically, at the best of times and has stretched and challenged me in more ways than I thought were possible.
Recently, after many sleepless nights and countless hours of slogging in the lab, I have finally been able to achieve some tangible results. However, these have come a little too late as I helplessly aim to complete my PhD. I am very isolated in my research group with no other member working on anything similar and have very few people to discuss the successes and failures of my project or even just to bounce ideas off.
With little funding left, I fear I will no longer be able to continue to complete my PhD and the past 3 years will amount to nothing but wasted time.
What's my idea?
I have been accepted to present my research thus far at the 248th American Chemical Society (ACS) National Meeting and Exposition. The ACS is the world's largest scientific society and attending this conference will finally give me the opportunity to discuss my research with others and gain insights into their research techniques. This will be an unrivaled opportunity to network with over 16 000 scientific professionals and attend talks and presentations delivered by some of the best and most renowned chemists in the field.
Why am I crowdfunding?
Unfortunately, as a result of a lack in funding to attend the conference, I risk missing out on what is likely to be the biggest and best opportunity of my research degree. I have tried tutoring to raise money but this is not a viable method to raise sufficient funds in time. In addition, my current grant to carry out my research ends in September, after which I will no longer have any sources of funding but will be expected to pay for myself whilst I continue my research to a point where my supervisor is happy to allow me to submit.
Testimonials
From the ACS
http://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/meetings/fall-2014/Attendee_Proposal_Kit_SanFran_sm.pdf
Rewards
I can't offer you much in return for your kind donations but please know you are doing me a massive favour, even if its just £ 1. I will be extremely grateful for your help and you will be mentioned in my acknowledgements in all future presentations I make in relation to my research.