Katlo Batsile

What is your current job / programme of study?

PhD student, Imperial College

What A-Levels (or equivalent) did you do?

Physics, Chemistry and Maths

Why did you chose a career in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)?

Materials are the basis of anything and everything around us, and I was excited by the idea of exploring how best to engineer these materials to suit our (process) needs.

What did you enjoy most about your MSE course?

I did my undergraduate in Chemical Engineering, and in a similar way to it, Material Science is a combination of applications relying on the physics and chemistry (and maths too), subjects I really enjoy.

What is your research about?

I work on the design of impurity tolerant steels from recycled steel. So our aim is to bring circularity to the steel and iron industry by increasing the potential for recycled steels to be used for higher value applications.

What is the coolest thing you have done in your career so far?

Part of my work involves melting some steels and casting them. I can now proudly add blacksmith to my profile! Nothing’s cooler than striking arcs and getting to design your own alloys.

What do you see yourself doing in the future?

Hopefully doing a lot of volunteer work in Engineering.

What is your favourite material (and why)?

I’ve got many, but I find silica aerogels very intriguing. They’re ultralight, super strong and almost holographic… & you can do fun chocolate/crayon experiments with it.

What advice would you give your 16 year old self?

Chill out & be adventurous!