It’s been a busy term, so here’s the highlights:
I’ve had a “Secret Project” within CfAM for about a year now, developing a new technique for inkjet printing that grants us more fine control. It’s working, which is very exciting, but it’s working well enough that we’re considering IP protection. Which means although we’ve begun preparing a publication, it’s going back into the Secret Projects pile with the others.
I’m accelerating towards a publication in collaboration with Yinfeng He, a transitional professor in CfAM, centered on some exciting new multi-material printing. We’re one piece of data analysis and one mechanical test away from being done, with the paper already drafted around these, so we should be looking at mid January to early February.
I’m applying to a Nottingham Research Fellowship: a program intended to provide funding for 3 years on a proposed project, to act as a ‘kickstarter’ to an independent professorship. Competition is very stiff (I know many of my colleagues are applying as well, and they are quite impressive), so we’ll see how it goes. I’m excited for the opportunity, and I’m reassured that thanks to the discussions and connections that have come out of this process, even if I don’t get the role this year, I’m set up for some amazing opportunities over the next year.
I’ve taken on the role of Engineering Research Futures (ERF) rep within CfAM. ERF is a Nottingham organisation that facilitates and assists in career and personal development for our engineering researchers. This includes organising professional networking events, professional development resources, providing guidance, and taking feedback from researchers to then take to the Faculty. I’m taking over for the previous rep, Ian Maskery, who is an Nottingham Research Fellow in the process of transition into full professorship. If you’d like more details
And: I just had a visit from some family. My parents came to the UK for their first-ever trip to Europe, and stayed with us for a week. They were very endeared by the UK, and are currently in Switzerland ‘visiting’ the mountains. A very nice addition to the term.
Here’s to some new exciting publications in the coming months!