Student Profile - Ben Willetts

"The research group consists of talented supervisors and students, from a variety of disciplines across the University, who aim to influence the international railway community through their research"  

PhD Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of EESE

Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?

I was attracted to a PhD focussed on Rail Research due to the dynamics, expertise, support and opportunities provided by the Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education (BCRRE). The research group consists of talented supervisors and students, from a variety of disciplines across the University, who aim to influence the international railway community through their research.

What do you think are the best points of your course?

The course provides the opportunity to directly engage with industry and work on exciting, innovative projects taking place in the UK and overseas.

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

Staff and students at the University of Birmingham are enthusiastic about the courses they teach and study, and want to stimulate interest in their fields. There are always free seminars, lecture series, open days and events to become involved with and expand your range of knowledge.

What’s your highlight of your time at the University?

As part of my project I was able to travel to our joint research institute in Anhui Province, China. I got to work with our international colleagues and was based there for 6 weeks.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?

I would advise researching the current projects taking place in the field to find out what your interests are. There are so many rail related areas of study it is useful to have some idea of what you want to focus on.