What is your background?
My undergraduate degree was in physics, during which I added on one year to study abroad and take some energy-themed engineering modules. During my summer vacations, I studied Environmental Politics and Environmental Science on university summer schools abroad. I have also held two positions at Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) in 2018 and 2019. The first was as an intern working on a research project for domestic solar-battery energy systems. The second was as an Assistant Test Engineer on a UKESL project, in partnership with Nissan, related to second-life application development for Li-ion batteries. My current PhD programme is entitled Sustainable Energy Technology, under the Faculty of Engineering, and brings together a mix of my physics and engineering training. The overarching subject of my PhD is clean energy generation, specifically solar energy.
What is your research about?
My current project is related to forecasting the output from solar panels. I am looking in particular at the influence of the solar spectrum (different types of light, such as infrared or ultraviolet) on solar panel performance, and incorporating these effects into models to forecast solar panel output. With more accurate forecasts of solar panel output, we can optimise system design prior to construction, detect faults when the forecasts don’t match the real performance, and help energy suppliers plan a balanced supply of energy from multiple sources - some of which (like solar power) may offer an intermittent output.
Why did you choose the University of Nottingham?
The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of research facilities and expertise that helps not only with theoretical but also empirical research, which is key for my field. On a more personal level, the university also has world-class sports facilities and a badminton training programme that enables me to train and compete in my sport in harmony alongside my studies.
What would you say to aspiring engineers?
Studying engineering equips you with the skills to solve current problems and problems that do not even exist yet. The world is filled with challenges, and it is the job of an engineer to start filling it with solutions. Your skills and work as an engineer can help society function, develop, and flourish in a sustainable way. I personally cannot think of a more rewarding role.
As you embark on your engineering journey, do not be afraid to tackle big challenges and dream of big solutions. If your dreams do not scare you at least a little bit, and perhaps even raise a few eyebrows from your peers, you are probably not dreaming big enough. At the same time, it is crucial for every engineer to stay humble and be ready to take on constructive criticism, from yourself and others, and always think about the implications of your work — both positive and negative.
Finally, engineering is a broad field so take your time to explore different areas and find out what excites you. Find an area or areas that you enjoy, and have some fun!