Sidra currently works on Cryogenic Liquids for Energy Storage and Carbon Capture at University of Birmingham.
What are your career experiences since graduating from the University of Birmingham?
After finishing my undergraduate studies, I decided to apply for a PhD since I liked research and could see myself doing it for a long while (work as a researcher after PhD). I achieved good grades that allowed me to apply directly for a PhD and forego the Masters.
What is your current role and what does it involve?
My current work involves Cryogenic Liquids for Energy Storage and Carbon Capture. The aim is to produce microcapsule with CO2 absorbent core for carbon capture at very low temp.
What do you love the most about your job and what is the biggest challenge?
The flexibility in regards to the working hours works really well for me and I'm very grateful for it. Though doing research on a new research topic is quite challenging as limited literature is available on that particular topic hence making interpretation of one's own result more challenging.
How did your degree help prepare you for your career?
The wide range of modules from materials, biomedicine to dentistry gave us the freedom to choose in which field we would like to continue and specialise in. Furthermore, the final year project of two semesters and subsequently the thesis in our last year helped me finalise my decision of doing a PhD.
What attracted you to studying at Birmingham?
Good reputation, teaching quality & facilities
How would you sum up your time in Birmingham in three words?
Definitely worth it!
What inspired you most during your time at Birmingham?
My tutor, some of the lecturers (main ones) and the friends I made whilst studying.
How would you advise people to make the most of their time on their course?
Interact well with your lecturer, careers advisor and university staff as they might be helpful when you need help in your 3rd year as you are deciding on your path after your Bachelor.