What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
I studied Pure Maths and Physics as I was keen to become an engineer.
What degree/PhD did you study?
I studied my undergraduate degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, MSc in Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics and PhD in Computer Science with a focus on cognitive robotics.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
Since high school, Maths has always been my favourite subject, but during my undergraduate degree and even more so in my MSc programme, I became fascinated with robotics and how we can get robots to learn new skills.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I have worked primarily as a researcher in academia, but I did spend a summer working in a biotech startup. My research projects have been quite diverse in terms of application, but I have always been excited about applying robotics to real-world environments which would benefit the human society e.g., chemistry laboratory automation and nuclear.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
Currently, I am a Lecturer in Robotics and Chemistry Automation and Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow. Together with my group, we study how to use learning-based methods for improving robotic chemists, ranging from laboratory skill learning to chemist-robot interaction and failure recovery methods. The best thing about my job is that it is very dynamic and no day is the same! More importantly, I enjoy carrying out research with my group and students and watching them learn, grow and succeed.
Do you have an area of expertise / research?
My research expertise is robot learning, with a particular focus on applying it to the chemistry lab automation domain.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
The most exciting project is definitely my Royal Academy of Engineering research fellowship.
What are your top tips for working in your industry/sector?
I think the most important thing is to enjoy learning and appreciate the privilege that probably no other job in the world gives you the freedom to pursue your own research and learning direction. Perseverance is the key to success - things will not work out and other things will fail, but the drive to keep trying is what really makes the journey successful, but more importantly enjoyable!
Why are you passionate about your subject / career / research / STEMM?
I think it's exciting to see new technology such as robotics being applied to help and improve our societies; as an academic I am also passionate and privileged to be able to train and help students achieve their full potential and make sure that STEMM is accessible to everyone.
Find out more about Gabriella and keep up to date with her work here.