Emre Yildirim

Hydrogen Technologies Group Lead, Clean Energy Research Institute (Türkiye)

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day.

I currently work as the Hydrogen Technologies Group Lead at a Clean Energy Research Institute in Türkiye. In this role, I manage research and development activities focused on hydrogen production, storage, and fuel cell systems. On a typical day my work is a combination of technical research, project management, and strategic planning. I coordinate experimental studies related to PEM electrolysers, hydrogen storage materials, and fuel cell performance optimisation. This includes designing experiments, analysing performance data, supervising laboratory testing, and troubleshooting system-level issues.

Beyond laboratory work, I also lead a small research team. I oversee project timelines, prepare technical reports for funding bodies, and contribute to proposal writing for new research grants. A significant part of my role involves bridging theory and application — translating academic research into scalable engineering solutions.
Some days are highly technical, involving data analysis or system modelling. What I enjoy most is working at the intersection of research and real-world energy transition challenge.

What were the best things about your course?

One of the best aspects of the Global Energy Technologies and Systems programme  was its strong balance between engineering depth and systems-level thinking. The course did not only focus on individual technologies, but also on how different energy systems interact within broader economic, environmental, and policy contexts.
I particularly appreciated the multidisciplinary structure. We explored renewable energy technologies, energy storage, hydrogen systems, and energy economics within the same framework. This holistic perspective has been extremely valuable in my current role, where technical decisions must align with strategic and sustainability considerations.

Another highlight was the research-driven learning approach. The programme encouraged critical thinking, independent analysis, and engagement with real-world case studies. My MSc research experience was especially impactful, as it strengthened both my experimental skills and scientific writing abilities, ultimately leading me to continue working in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. The international classroom environment created a dynamic exchange of ideas. Learning alongside students from different academic and cultural backgrounds broadened my perspective and improved my ability to communicate technical concepts clearly, a skill I now use daily in my professional life.

How do you feel your degree helped you get a job after graduation?

I completed my MSc with the support of a competitive scholarship awarded by the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB). As part of this programme, I was expected to return and contribute to Türkiye’s strategic energy and technology development goals. Therefore, I knew that I would continue my professional career in a research-oriented role after graduation. However, knowing that I had a position to return to did not reduce the importance of the degree. On the contrary, it increased the responsibility. The MSc equipped me with the advanced technical knowledge and research skills required to perform effectively in that role from day one.

The programme strengthened my understanding of hydrogen systems, fuel cells, and energy technologies at both component and systems levels. It also enhanced my analytical thinking, academic writing, and experimental design capabilities. When I returned, I was not only formally qualified for the position, but also technically prepared to take on leadership responsibilities in hydrogen technologies.
In that sense, the degree did not simply help me get a job, it enabled me to add value immediately within my organisation.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

The skills I use most from my degree are analytical thinking, systems-level understanding, and research methodology. The programme trained me to approach energy technologies not as isolated components, but as interconnected systems. In my current role, this systems perspective is essential. Technical decisions often have economic, operational, and sustainability implications, and the ability to evaluate these interactions is something I developed during my MSc. Another key skill I use daily is experimental design and data interpretation. My research experience during the programme strengthened my ability to structure experiments, analyse performance data critically, and draw evidence-based conclusions. This is particularly valuable in R&D environments where decisions must be supported by rigorous technical analysis.

The degree also significantly improved my technical communication skills. Writing reports, presenting findings, and explaining complex engineering concepts to different stakeholders are all part of my daily responsibilities. The academic training I received helped me communicate clearly, concisely, and confidently.

What are your top tips for securing a job in the United Kingdom or your home country?

My top advice for securing a job in either the UK or your home country is to combine technical competence with strategic positioning. First, build strong technical depth in a niche area. Whether it is hydrogen technologies, energy systems modelling, data analysis, or policy, employers value candidates who can demonstrate clear expertise rather than general knowledge. Your MSc dissertation can be a powerful tool. Treat it as more than an academic requirement, but as a professional showcase.

Second, develop strong communication skills. In both the UK and Türkiye, being able to explain complex technical concepts clearly is a major advantage. Interviews often assess how you think and how you articulate solutions, not just what you know.

Third, gain practical experience wherever possible. Internships, research assistant roles, laboratory work, or industry collaborations significantly strengthen your profile. Employers want evidence that you can apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
For those aiming to work in the UK, networking is particularly important. Attend university career events, connect with academics and industry professionals on LinkedIn, and engage in research groups. Many opportunities arise through visibility and professional relationships.

For those returning to their home country, understand the strategic priorities of the sector you want to enter. Align your expertise with national development goals or industry needs. Demonstrating how your international education creates local impact can strongly differentiate you.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham? Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree?

Since graduating from the University of Birmingham, my career has developed from a research-focused position into a leadership role in hydrogen technologies. After returning to Türkiye, I began working in applied research and development in hydrogen production, storage systems, and fuel cell technologies. Over time, my responsibilities expanded from primarily technical work such as experimental design and data analysis, to leading projects, managing research activities, and setting technical direction. I currently serve as a Hydrogen Technologies Group Lead, where I combine strategic planning with hands-on technical oversight.

In terms of additional training, I did not require formal supplementary education to perform my role effectively. The MSc provided a strong and sufficient technical foundation, particularly in systems thinking, research methodology, and energy technologies. However, driven by my academic interest and long-term career goals, I am currently pursuing a PhD in hydrogen technologies in Türkiye. This is not a requirement of my position, but rather a personal and professional commitment to deepening my expertise in the field. In that sense, the MSc equipped me to enter the field confidently, while the PhD reflects my desire to continue growing and contributing at a higher level.

What advice would you give to current and prospective students looking to work in your sector?

For students looking to work in the hydrogen and clean energy sector, my main advice is to build strong technical foundations while maintaining a systems-level perspective. Hydrogen technologies involve chemistry, materials science, thermodynamics, engineering design, and policy, so interdisciplinary understanding is a major advantage. Develop practical experience as early as possible. Laboratory work, research projects, internships, or industry collaborations will significantly strengthen your profile. Employers in this sector value problem-solving ability and hands-on competence.

I would also encourage students to follow global developments closely. The hydrogen sector is evolving rapidly, and understanding policy trends, market dynamics, and technological challenges will help you position yourself strategically. Finally, be patient and persistent. Clean energy transformation is a long-term process. If you invest in developing deep expertise and remain adaptable, there are strong opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the energy transition.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme?

My advice to current students would be to approach coursework and assignments with genuine depth and commitment. When you complete the tasks and research components thoroughly, you significantly expand your knowledge and build a strong foundation in the subject area. The programme is designed in a way that, if you fully engage with the research and analytical aspects, your understanding of energy systems will develop far beyond the classroom material. Be strategic with your dissertation topic. Choose an area that aligns with your long-term career goals or an emerging industry need. Treat it as a professional showcase rather than just an academic requirement.

I would also encourage students to build relationships with academics and peers. The learning environment is collaborative, and discussions outside formal lectures often deepen understanding significantly. If you approach the programme with curiosity and intention, it can become much more than a qualification, it can shape your career direction.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?

Beyond academic study, I recommend gaining practical experience wherever possible through research projects, lab work, or industry collaborations. Employers value evidence that you can apply knowledge, not just understand theory. Be strategic with your dissertation topic and align it with an emerging industry need. Also, build your professional network by attending events and connecting with academics and industry professionals. Finally, develop strong communication skills. Being able to clearly explain technical ideas is often what differentiates candidates in the graduate market. Academic success is important, but initiative and practical engagement make you truly employable.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University, for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so what impact did they have on you?

Attending Careers Network events gave me useful insight into the UK graduate recruitment process and employer expectations. These sessions helped me better understand how to structure applications and prepare for interviews. As an international student, navigating visa considerations and sponsorship requirements added some additional complexity to the process. While certain opportunities were more straightforward for home students, the exposure to employer perspectives still helped me refine how I presented my skills and experience. Overall, the experience increased my awareness of the graduate job market and strengthened my professional confidence.

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham?

My fondest memories of the University are the people and the sense of shared purpose we had as a cohort. I built strong friendships with classmates from different countries, many of whom I am still in contact with today. Working together, overcoming academic challenges, and achieving milestones as a team created memories that I truly value and often miss. The University was a turning point in my life. It not only strengthened my technical knowledge but also shaped my professional identity and confidence. The academic staff were highly experienced, approachable, and genuinely supportive. There was a strong sense of community, almost like a family, where you felt encouraged to grow both academically and personally. To anyone considering studying at Birmingham, I would say: it is more than a degree. It is an environment where you are challenged, supported, and prepared for the next stage of your career. If you fully engage with the experience, it can truly be transformative.

What were your favourite things about Birmingham the city? How did it compare to your expectations?

What I appreciated most about Birmingham was its multicultural and welcoming atmosphere. As an international student, being in such a diverse city made it easier to adapt and feel part of a global community. While Birmingham may not have had the fast-pace of some larger cities, I found that this created a more balanced and student-friendly environment. Transportation was convenient and getting around was easy. I particularly enjoyed being able to walk from home to the University. Those daily walks became a pleasant and reflective part of my routine. Another highlight was the number of parks and green spaces. They offered great places to relax, spend time with friends, and take a break from academic work. Overall, compared to my expectations, the city felt calmer but more liveable and inclusive than I had imagined, which made my experience very positive.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student?

During my time at the University, I actively participated in various cultural and academic events, including conferences, training workshops, and campus concerts. Attending conferences and seminars allowed me to broaden my technical perspective beyond the classroom and engage with current developments in the energy sector.
At the same time, participating in cultural events and concerts helped me build friendships and fully experience university life. These activities contributed to both my professional development and personal growth.

Please tell us about your experience studying and living away from home.

Studying and living away from home was both challenging and transformative. Moving to a different country meant adapting to a new academic system, culture, and daily life. At the beginning, being away from family and familiar surroundings required adjustment. However, this experience significantly strengthened my independence, resilience, and adaptability. Managing academic responsibilities while building a new social environment helped me grow both personally and professionally. Living in an international community also broadened my perspective. Interacting with people from different cultures improved my communication skills and helped me become more open-minded. Looking back, studying away from home was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and contributed greatly to the person and professional I am today.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I originally applied to the University of Birmingham because of its strong reputation in energy research and engineering. The Global Energy Technologies and Systems programme offered a unique combination of technical depth and systems-level perspective, which aligned perfectly with my interest in hydrogen and clean energy technologies. I was particularly drawn to the University’s research-oriented environment and its well-established academic expertise in energy systems. Studying in the UK also offered the opportunity to gain international exposure and experience a different academic culture. For me, Birmingham represented not only academic excellence but also a strategic step toward building a career in advanced energy technologies.