Mohammad Ali Salik
Originally from Wick in the Scottish Highlands, Ali Salik began his scientific career as a modern apprentice at the University of Glasgow’s School of Chemistry. He has since progressed through a range of increasingly senior technical and research roles and is now the Research Laboratory Manager for the Biomarkers for Environmental and Climate Science (BECS) group in the School of Geographical & Earth Sciences.
Ali holds a first-class BSc (Hons) in Chemistry and Environmental Science and is a specialist in organic geochemistry, analytical chemistry, and isotope science. He leads the development and delivery of advanced analytical capabilities within BECS, including GC-FID/ECD, GC-MS, GC-IRMS, LC-MS/MS (QQQ), HPLC, and accelerated solvent extraction (ASE). His work underpins interdisciplinary research across environmental, biological, and geochemical systems, enabling high-impact outputs and methodological innovation.
He plays a central role in training and mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers, and technical staff in analytical techniques and laboratory best practice. Ali contributes to teaching through the delivery of MSci Analytical Methods in Geoscience workshops and supervises undergraduate Environmental Geoscience research projects.
In his laboratory leadership role, Ali is responsible for the strategic management of facilities, including health and safety, financial planning and grant management, procurement, and external partnerships with industry and service providers. He serves as Fire Safety Coordinator and Chemical Safety Adviser for the School, ensuring compliance and fostering a strong safety culture.
Alongside his technical role, Ali provides significant strategic leadership within the University and the wider sector. He is the University of Glasgow’s Technician Commitment Coordinator and a member of the institutional Steering Group, leading initiatives that enhance the visibility, recognition, and career development of technical professionals.
At a national and international level, he is a Peer Reviewer for the Technician Commitment, contributes to activity linked to UK ITSS and REF 2029 on recognising technical contributions, and represents the University through networks such as Universitas 21. He is also Project Lead for the Wellcome-funded Scottish Research Technicians’ Professional (SRTP) Academy, a cross-institutional initiative across the Universities of Glasgow, Edinburgh, and St Andrews, focused on developing technician career pathways, strengthening networks, and shaping policy and practice for the technical profession.
