Robyn’s skill is blowing away city university

DID you know Newcastle University had a head glassblower?

Robyn Hare has the unique job of being the university’s glassblowing supervisor.

The role includes repairing equipment as well as creating bespoke pieces for research projects.

Robyn said: “No two days are the same.

“I’m really enjoying working with people when they need a specially designed piece of equipment.

“Glass is a bit like Lego; there are certain ways it can be put together and my job is to apply the basic principles and come up with an end product that will fit the purpose.

“Sometimes this can be a unique piece that has never been made before.”

Robyn has worked at Newcastle University for seven years after answering an advert for an apprentice glassblower in 2010.

After completing her training she now runs the in-house workshop by herself.

Robyn said: “Glassblowing is a traditional skill but as technology advances I find that I’m asked to make different things.

“What is being made for chemistry has changed, but glass is nothing but an adaptable material.

“There are new applications in research for glass, for example I’ve been working with the school of architecture recently, so I’m adapting with the research.”