What is your background?

I have been part of the Faculty of Engineering since 1990 as an undergraduate in “Production and Operations Management”, postgraduate in the “structured evaluation of training in virtual environments” and a researcher with the Human Factors research group. As a researcher for 25 years I worked with UK and European research institutes and industries on the human factors challenges of advanced interactive technologies, such as virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality. Now I am Head of Engineering Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) working with the Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for RKE to implement the faculty’s RKE strategy and support others in their research ambitions. 

Tell us about your job?

As Head of Engineering Research and Knowledge Exchange (ERKE) I lead a multi-skilled, multi-disciplinary team of experts that support activities across the RKE lifecycle. With significant funding around £145M from a wide range of national and international funders including key industrial partners, we engage in interdisciplinary activities that address globally important areas such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, transport, healthcare, energy and sustainability.

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

I have always had the opportunity to work with amazing teams within engineering and across the world. I have been very fortunate to work with people that have encouraged my growth and given me lots of opportunities to develop my skills and capabilities. I am grateful to be able to give back in some way as the Head of ERKE to our researchers.

What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?

I ended up in engineering by accident. I didn’t know what I wanted to do but I thought the subjects being taught were interesting. Engineers love solving problems and finding solutions. This means you need people with different viewpoints and life experiences to support creativity and to make things work for everyone. Don’t feel you cannot contribute something because the chances are that we need you!