"The science behind nanotechnology has always fascinated me. So, when I heard about this PhD opportunity in Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) – which is world-renowned in the field of nanotechnology – I knew I’d found what I was looking for.

The aim of my PhD is to develop a low cost, ink-based x-ray detector which can be used in cancer therapy to accurately evaluate the dose delivered to patients. It could also be used for large-scale screening in security applications such as in airports. I’ve presented my work at a European conference attended by the expert radiation community, where it was very well received, and also published some of my initial work in a respected journal.

The community within the ATI is very friendly and supportive, and I now feel that Surrey is a home away from home. Since coming here, I know that I made the right choice. Although at times my work is challenging, I find inspiration from working with pioneers in the field.”

“Control engineering can be used in different applications such as automobiles, aircraft, plant factories and so on. But the most interesting application for me was how spacecrafts are used to explore space.

Being part of a department that works with professionals was the best option for me to acquire both academic and professional skills, which is why I decided to come to Surrey for my PhD. The University of Surrey, apart from being one of the best universities in the UK, is home to the Surrey Space Centre which works in collaboration with the Surrey Satellite Technology Limited.

The overall experience of studying for a PhD at Surrey has been productive, challenging and fun. Every day is an opportunity to learn, from fellow researchers, classes or different talks organised by the University. Every day is an opportunity to be better than the person you were the day before. Every day is an opportunity to meet with friends and relax.”

"After starting a graduate job in software engineering, I wanted to be stretched more and work with new and exciting technology. I also wanted more independence to be able to explore the areas that interested me.

So far I have had lots of support and encouragement from all the staff and fellow students at Surrey. I was new to my field when I started my PhD so I was given lots of help such as being able to attend undergraduate lectures to improve in areas I needed to. The opportunity to meet and work with people from such diverse backgrounds has given me different insights into research.

My research is industry sponsored, so I get to discuss with my industrial supervisor how the research I am doing could be implemented and used in the future. So far my greatest achievements have been publishing my first peer-reviewed paper in a conference last year and presenting a student oral at an international robotics summer school for PhD students and other researchers.”