Can you tell us about your role and career to date?
I am a post-doctoral research associate here at the University of Liverpool. I study vibrations and wave propagation in mechanical systems using a variety of techniques from physics, maths and engineering.
I have always had a keen interest in learning, whether that be about science, literature, history or languages. Over the years, I came to focus more on sciences and so chose to study Maths, Physics and Chemistry to A-Level with History and Further Maths to AS-Level. After that, I went on to complete an undergraduate (integrated) MSc at Lancaster University in Theoretical Physics and Mathematics, which included a year at studying abroad at Iowa State University. In 2023 I finished my PhD in Applied Mathematics, which was a dual degree programme between the University of Liverpool and National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I like having the opportunity to pursue new avenues of research in my field and the freedom of my position as a non-teaching academic.
Do you have any areas of expertise/research?
My research expertise primarily focuses on vibrations and wave propagation for arrays of elastic resonators. I also study acoustic wave propagation for non-destructive evaluation techniques. I feel passionate about developing systems that can one day protect people and critical infrastructure, from wind turbines and nuclear power stations to earthquake protection devices.
Do you have any top tips for working in the industry?
Networking at conferences is invaluable, making good impressions and connections can serve you well in the future. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial, I would tell any new PhD student to treat the project like a 9-5 job as a researcher. Also, choose a supervisor you respect, and who speaks in a way that you can understand.