AN up-and-coming scientist has been given the chance to continue her studies at the site of the biggest machine in the world.

Danielle Hodgkinson, of Clough House Drive, Leigh, is set to start a PhD in Particle Physics at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Switzerland- home of the hadron collider machine.

The 22-year-old got 13 A*s at GCSE level and is currently waiting for the results of her Theoretical Physics degree at the University of Manchester.

Professor Brian Cox, who has appeared on television, was one of Danielle’s lecturers.

Her mum Elaine said: “I am extremely proud of Danielle’s achievements.

“It is amazing how well she has done which is down to all her hard work.

“She has always put the hours in her studies and it has paid off.

“Since she found out about getting the opportunity to go to Switzerland we have also had lots of nice messages from people wishing her well.”

Former St Thomas CE Primary School pupil Danielle, who has worked part time at Leigh Market, is due to be based in Geneva for the next five years.