Why did you choose the Bristol Composites Institute for your studies?
When I was looking for a doctorate, I knew I wanted to work on composite materials but I wasn’t sure about the area in which I wanted to specialise. The CDT programme that BCI offers provided me with the opportunity to learn more about the world of composites before deciding which route interests me the most. Additionally, coming from a science background the CDT provided the opportunity to upskill myself with engineering skills, which is ultimately the route I ended up taking.
What research area did you specialise in whilst you were here?
I worked on the development of nanocomposite materials with enhanced toughness. My research was mostly experimental, using a multi-scale approach to tackle the research question. More specifically, I developed polystyrene nanofibres with embedded cellulose nanocrystals, and then I added these nanofibres as interleaves within composite laminates. I studied the mechanical performance of all the different components, working towards understanding the connection between the properties of the nanofibres and how they affected the mechanical performance of the composite laminates.
After leaving the BCI where did you go?
Initially I moved to Oxfordshire and worked as an R&D Scientist in The Electrospinning Company in the field of biomedical devices. I realised though that the aerospace sector was my true calling, so I returned to Bristol as a Composites Engineer with Alten UK, a consultancy which gave me the opportunity to work for Rolls-Royce and GKN Aerospace. After that, I moved to the National Composites Centre (NCC), where I still work as an Advanced Research Engineer for materials in extreme environments.
What are you currently working on and what do your future plans look like?
I am currently working on multiple projects on the development of materials and manufacturing processes for materials in extreme environments. That includes materials that can withstand hypersonic speeds, cryogenic environments, and even the synergistic effect of atomic oxygen and radiation in lower earth orbit. In the future I would like to keep working in this area as a technical specialist; the cutting-edge applications that I get to work on are always interesting and they provide an early glimpse into our future!
How did the BCI prepare you for work outside of academia?
The BCI prepared me by helping me develop both my technical skills, which are of course absolutely necessary, but also my soft skills. Learning how to communicate with your team, how to present your research, how to manage a budget and a timeline… these are qualities that help candidates stand out when applying for jobs, and that eventually make you successful in your career, as you can navigate your projects and any difficulties more easily.