Melisha Barboza
What is your current programme of study?
MPhil/PhD Researcher in Materials and Chemical Engineering at the University of Warwick with UK-HyRES.
What A-Levels (or equivalent) did you do?
Physics, Maths, Chemistry
Why did you choose a career in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)?
My undergraduate in MSE allowed me to develop both practical and theoretical skills in a wide range of discipline as materials are everywhere, giving me a strong holistic understanding of engineering problems. MSE also allows for specialisation but most importantly allows you to draw ideas and parallels from different areas within the field stimulating innovation within engineering solutions.
What did you enjoy most about your MSE course? (If you didn’t do a MSE course, which course did you do and what led to you MSE?)
Personally, I enjoy material chemistry for electronic materials which is what I specialised for in the continuation of my research. The ability to see how very small, microscopic changes make such a huge difference to the material output is fascinating and rewarding when you get it just right. As electronic devices and materials play a huge part in the energy and technology sector the science is continuously working towards a better future.
As well as the actual science, the people that do MSE always show a genuine love for the subject and are always willing to share their knowledge and learn.
What is the coolest thing you have done in your career so far?
Speaking at the Student Sustainability Research Conference (SSRC2024) at The University of Leeds has been the coolest and the most nerve inducing thing I have done so far in my career. Getting the opportunity to speak at a conference about my contribution to the future of sustainability is really rewarding and truly keeps me wanting to do more.
What do you see yourself doing in the future?
After my PhD, I would hopefully like to take my knowledge and skills into a job that allows me to continue research and development within specialised technology for large scale usage. I also intend to continue being an ambassador for STEM, Women in STEM and MSE.
What is your favourite material (and why)?
This is kind of a strange answer, but wood! Wood has been used in civilization since the beginning of time and is still used to this day and is often unmatched in fields such as musical instruments. It is at its core a natural composite that is very strong, lightweight and biodegradable. Wood has often been the reference material for composites. I think it reminds us to always look at nature when designing new materials.
What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
Stop worrying, work really hard and take in all the experiences!
Links
Share this post
