What is your background?

I joined the Department of Foundation Engineering and Physical Sciences (FEPS) at the University of Nottingham (UoN) in 2018 and am currently serving as an Assistant Professor. Prior to this I worked at Derby College as a Lecturer of Professional Construction. Overall, I possess approximately 15 years of teaching and research experience. I am a Fellow of Advance HE and was nominated for the Lord Dearing Award in 2023.

My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from NED University of Engineering and Technology in Pakistan, followed by a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from University Technology PETRONAS in Malaysia. During my MSc I developed cement-free concrete for building construction. I then completed my PhD in Civil Engineering at University Technology MARA in Malaysia in 2016, where I focused on developing an innovative fire-resistant cementitious coating designed to provide extended protection for concrete building columns under fire conditions.

Since 2010 I have been a lifetime fellow of the Schlumberger Faculty for the Future programme. Out of 300 international female applicants I was one of 33 selected to pursue a PhD under this scheme. I am committed to advancing women’s participation and achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and have actively mentored women to help them overcome barriers in pursuing engineering education and careers. I am also the Partner Sponsored Member of Women’s Engineering Society (WES) in the Faculty of Engineering.

I have been the academic lead for the ‘Inspiring Women in Engineering’ programme in the Faculty of Engineering since 2023. In this programme I mentor groups of female engineering students at all levels - foundation, BEng, MEng, and PhD - together with alumni to inspire Year 9 and Year 10 girls from local schools.

In 2018 I joined the Institute of Civil Engineers Early Career Network (ICE-ECN) East Midlands committee and in 2020 I was nominated as its chair. During my time at ICE-ECN I launched the High Early Strength Concrete Cube Competition, which has been successfully held annually. In 2024 the Civil Engineering department at the University of Nottingham successfully hosted this competition. 

Tell us about your job

I am the Module Convenor for the Engineering Project module and am contributing to the Structural Concrete Design and Portfolio of Civil Engineering Studies 1 and 2 modules. In the past I contributed to several other modules including Engineering Mechanics, Computer Methods (MATLAB), and Professional, Experimental and Academic Competencies modules for the FEPS programme, and Applied Engineering and Professional Skills module for the Electro-mechanical degree apprenticeship programme.

Apart from teaching I am the Senior Tutor and Disability Liaison Officer in FEPS overseeing pastoral support in the Foundation year department and providing direct support to our students with disabilities and learning differences. I am also the Destination Officer at FEPS responsible for overseeing student progression to their chosen degrees. Additionally, I assist with admissions and recruitment activities at FEPS and have previously contributed to the wider faculty. I have been an elected member of the University Senate since 2024.

I am also the Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) Champion for the Faculty of Engineering. This role involves acting as a link between the faculty and the BAME Staff Network, raising concerns and sharing best practices with the network, and representing the network within the faculty.

What kind of support have you found helpful in advancing your career?

The invaluable support I have received so far comes from my parents who always believed in me and made many sacrifices for my education and career. My teachers and mentors were the first to recognise my potential and encouraged me to persevere regardless of the circumstances.

Since I joined the university a wide range of opportunities has opened for me allowing me to realise my potential and further develop my teaching, research and leadership skills through ongoing professional development and work experience. I have also been very fortunate to work with my colleagues who have played an invaluable role in my growth by providing honest, constructive feedback.

What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?

If you love solving problems and want to make this world a better place, then engineering is for you. Never be afraid to pursue your dreams regardless of what people say. No one can make you unsuccessful unless you believe it. Unfortunately, gender bias can still exist in engineering. Stay resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. I firmly believe that women are equally capable of doing anything as men so keep challenging the status quo.