What is your background?

I’m a power electronics engineer. I started with an equivalent MEng degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Bari in Italy, followed by a PhD degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Nottingham. I spent the best years growing up, learning about mechanical engineering and marine motors in my fathers workshop. It’s here, with hands on experience, where I learnt about problem-solving and what an important skill it is to have in any aspect of engineering. I’m a researcher in the Power Electronics, Machine and Control research group where I have been working on industrial and aerospace motor drives since 2006.

Tell us about your job?

As a Royal Academy of Engineering Senior Research Fellow I work on advancing research in Embedded Motor Drives, where by integrating power electronic converters within the envelop of an electrical machine, it is possible to achieve a very compact variable speed motor drive which allows huge energy savings to be made in industrial processes. Their compact size also creates a dramatically reduced raw material consumption than standard technologies. It is multi-disciplinary research with contributions from engineers with electrical, electronic, mechanical, thermal and control engineering backgrounds.

This would not be possible without having a thought for the next generation of engineers. One of the activities I try not to miss every year - and for the past decade - is the Greenpower Goblin outreach activity. Here children aged 9-11 fully embrace a combination of hands on experience in building a real size electric go-cart, design of the body work, and drive practise culminating in an exciting race day.  

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

A friendly and diverse work environment together with funding schemes such as the Impact Accelerator Account which have enabled my initial steps as an independent researcher. Also, a long standing collaboration with a very supportive industrial partner keen to see fundamental research make real impact with sustainable engineering solutions.

What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?

Engineering is for everyone, especially if you love solving problems and coming up with solutions that will contribute to make a real difference in the way we treat the world we live in. There isn’t any one specific model to aim for, everyone contributes with their own beautiful individuality. Always challenge yourself, spend some time outside of your comfort zone and always encourage and inspire the next generation of engineers.