What is your background?
My journey in civil engineering and more specifically in structural engineering has been an enriching odyssey marked by diverse experiences and rigorous academic pursuits. I am currently working as an Assistant Professor in Structural Engineering at the University of Nottingham, which I joined in September 2018. Prior to this, I was awarded the prestigious Marie Curie Individual Fellowship, funded by Horizon Europe, at the Civil and Structural Engineering Department of the University of Sheffield from 2016 to 2018. My academic journey traces back to my tenure at the Civil Engineering Department of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, where I served as an elected Lecturer and Assistant Professor in Concrete Structures from 2009 to 2016.
Beyond academia, I have entered into the real-world applications, leveraging my expertise as a freelance engineer, and in the public works sector through financial monitoring and supervision of large structures.
Regarding my education, I received my 5-year Diploma in Structural Engineering from the Department of Civil Engineering of Democritus University of Thrace, Greece, in 1999. A year later I received from the same Department an MSc degree in "New Materials and Techniques on the Design of Reinforced Concrete". I subsequently continued my post-graduate studies at Imperial College, London, UK, where I attended the MSc program "Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics". I successfully completed the program and obtained an MSc Degree from the University of London and a Diploma of Membership of Imperial College (DIC) in November 2001. The same year I moved back to Greece and in June 2002, I enrolled in the Department of Civil Engineering of Democritus University of Thrace, to pursue PhD studies and earned my PhD degree in 2007.
Tell us about your job?
As an academic, my role is twofold: to educate and train the next generation of civil engineers and to conduct research to advance our current understanding of structures. I specialise in concrete structures, bridges, and buildings, with a keen interest not only in new construction but also in existing structures. Given that much of our built environment comprises structures erected many years ago, I am particularly interested in the pathology of these structures and endeavour to utilise innovative materials and techniques to extend their service life and enhance their resilience. Additionally, I am actively engaged in efforts to decarbonise construction through the development of novel structural designs and materials for sustainable and resilient structures. I also contribute to technical committees responsible for shaping the next generation of design codes.
What kind of support have you found helpful in advancing your career?
My experiences in various research environments have been incredibly beneficial to my career. In particular my involvement in European networking projects and the honour of receiving the Marie Curie fellowship have greatly influenced my trajectory. However, I attribute much of my growth and inspiration to the guidance of my former PhD supervisor, Professor Voula Pantazopoulou, who continues to serve as a Professor at Lassonde School of Engineering at York University in Canada. She not only imparted invaluable knowledge as a researcher but also served as a role model for balancing family and professional life, particularly as a woman.
What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?
Women possess multitasking abilities and history has proven that they excel as scientists and engineers. Our world presents numerous opportunities and unresolved challenges awaiting innovative solutions. It is crucial for women to embrace challenges with confidence and trust in their abilities to make meaningful contributions.