Rafael Iglesias shares his journey from PhD to lecturer in Biomedical Engineering at Universidad Francisco de Vitoria in Madrid…
Why did you choose the Bristol Composites Institute for your studies?
My decision to pursue my PhD studies at the Bristol Composites Institute was largely influenced by the CERTEST project, which brought together more than twenty researchers from different fields such as computational mechanics and experimental mechanics. In addition, the BCI is internationally recognised as a leading centre in the field of composite materials — an area in which I had already decided to specialise in some time ago. 
What research area did you specialise in whilst you were here?
I specialised in thermal imaging and digital image correlation applied to composite laminates. Under the supervision of Professor Janice Barton and with the support of my colleagues, I focused on thermoelastic stress analysis of CFRP laminated materials and studied their behaviour under non-adiabatic conditions.
After leaving the BCI where did you go?
I am currently a Lecturer in Biomedical Engineering at Universidad Francisco de Vitoria in Madrid. I decided to return to my home country because I wanted to build my career and personal life closer to my family.
What are you currently working on and what do your future plans look like?
Within the Biomedical Engineering degree at UFV, I teach and conduct research related to the manufacturing and mechanical testing of biostructures such as splints, prostheses, and scaffolds. In the upcoming semester, I plan to supervise some final-year projects and gradually re-engage with research activities.
How did the BCI prepare you for work outside of academia?
One of the most valuable skills I developed at the BCI was the ability to communicate, present, and defend ideas effectively in front of an audience. This came from attending numerous international conferences thanks to the support of Professor Janice Barton, Professor Ole Thomsen, and the funding provided by CERTEST. I feel very proud of the professional I have become after completing my PhD at the BCI.