What did you study?
Maths, Physics and Chemistry. I’ve always had a strong affinity for maths and applied maths —it’s a subject that has felt intuitive to me for as long as I can remember.
My first degree was an MEng (Hons) in Civil and Structural Engineering. Subsequently, I obtained my second degree of PhD in Engineering where I focused on biomechanical engineering.
What inspired me to choose and study my degree subject was a genuine fascination with how maths principles can be used to solve real-world problems. From an early age, I found myself drawn to the logical structure and clarity of maths and physics—it just made sense to me. As I progressed academically, I became particularly interested in combining mechanical engineering with biology (or better known as biomechanical engineering). That intersection really sparked my curiosity and motivated me to explore the subject further at a deeper level.
What key skills did you learn at university?
University equipped me with a strong foundation in analytical thinking and problem-solving, particularly through tackling complex engineering problems. I also developed valuable skills in time management and independent learning—balancing coursework, deadlines, and research really taught me how to prioritize and work efficiently.
Collaboration was another key area; working on group projects helped me communicate technical ideas clearly and adapt to different perspectives. Overall, it was a combination of technical proficiency and soft skills that have prepared me well for my career.
What roles have you had during your career?
I have held a range of academic and research roles across leading UK institutions. Currently, I am a Lecturer in the Department of Materials, Design & Manufacturing Engineering at the University of Liverpool, where I focus on biomedical engineering.
Prior to this, I was a Lecturer at the University of Bath, coordinating group design projects for engineering students. I also worked as a Research Fellow at the University of Leeds, developing finite element models for meniscal allografts. At Keele University, I contributed to an EPSRC-funded project using musculoskeletal modelling to improve assistive technologies. Earlier in my career, I worked as an Advanced Research Engineer at The Manufacturing Technology Centre, specialising in physics modelling and simulation across various Technology Readiness Levels. During this time, I became a Chartered Engineer with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. These experiences have strengthened my skills in research, teaching, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
What is your area of expertise?
I specialise in experimental and computational biomechanics, with a focus on understanding the mechanical behaviour of biological tissues and systems such as human knee joints. My expertise includes design of experiments, finite element analysis, musculoskeletal modelling, and the biomechanics of joints, particularly in relation to knee therapies. I have also worked on physics-based modelling in advanced manufacturing. My research bridges engineering and healthcare, aiming to develop innovative, practical solutions that improve clinical outcomes.
I am passionate about my research because biomechanical engineering allows me to innovate new solutions to improve health and wellbeing of people with musculoskeletal injuries and disease conditions.
What has been your most exciting project?
One of the most exciting projects I’ve worked on was during my time as a Research Fellow at the University of Leeds, where I contributed to the Optimising Knee Therapies programme. I led the development of finite element models to evaluate the mechanical and tribological performance of meniscal allografts. It was particularly rewarding because it combined advanced computational modelling with the potential for real clinical impact. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, I saw how engineering research can directly support better patient outcomes, which was both professionally fulfilling and personally motivating.
Top tips and advice
The academic sector is very competitive and it requires a lot of mental resilience. Therefore, my best tip is to work with people who are supportive and create opportunities for you to build such resilience.
More resources:
IMechE Orthopaedic Engineering Conference 2024 - Chair's Reflection
Rosti's Department webpage