What is your background?

I came to the University of Nottingham as a student in 2006 to study Product Design and Manufacture BEng (Hons). Following this I achieved an MSc in Bioengineering, then a PhD in Materials Science. In 2016 I started working as a Laboratory Technician in the Wolfson building.

Tell us about your job?

When I first started in this role I worked under the supervision of several technical specialists to get a flavour of the type of work that went on in the building, and to see what area I would like to work in. I then started to specialise in material characterisation using x-ray techniques. I typically discuss upcoming work with researchers to decide what would be the best analysis techniques for their samples, either scan samples for them or train them in the technique - depending on their requirements - and analyse data.

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

It has been helpful to have other women in similar roles, in particular women in management, who are brilliant at seeing the potential in female team members and giving them the support they need to excel. Visibility is really important; just seeing other women on the same career path as me doing outstanding work is inspirational.

What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?

When I was younger I didn’t realise how diverse, creative, and ubiquitous engineering is. Engineering is all around us!  Take things apart and figure out how they work. Be curious about the world around you. Never be afraid to take a risk and make mistakes as every mistake is a learning experience.