My PhD Journey at Teesside University: From Nervous Beginnings to a Triumphant End

Hello everyone! Today, I'm excited to share the detailed story of my PhD journey, which started in 2019 at Teesside University. This journey has been filled with incredible experiences, challenges, and learning opportunities, and I'm thrilled to take you through it.

The Beginning: The Interview

It all began in 2019 with an interview at the Curve Building, where I met Dr. Paul Russell, Dr. Faik Hamad, and Gary Lawson. I remember being incredibly nervous that day. This new venture involved designing a prototype for a company while conducting research on various parameters such as temperature, salinity, and droplet dynamics. The interview was intense, but the warmth and encouragement from Dr. Russell, Dr. Hamad, and Gary made a huge difference. Their questions were probing yet insightful, giving me a glimpse of the intellectual rigor and support I could expect at Teesside University.

Stepping into Research

Starting my PhD was both exciting and daunting. The task at hand was to design a prototype for a company while simultaneously conducting in-depth research. My research focused on crucial parameters such as temperature, salinity, and droplet dynamics. This dual focus required meticulous planning and a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects.

The Impact of Global Events

As the years went by, the world faced unprecedented challenges, including the global lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most universities around the world shut down, and research activities came to a halt. However, thanks to the unwavering support of Darbytech Limited and Teesside University, I was able to continue my research. They ensured the labs remained accessible, making it easier for me to progress in my studies despite the circumstances.

The Role of Mentorship

Dr. Paul Russell

I owe a great deal of my success to Dr. Paul Russell. He has been more than just an academic supervisor; he's been a guiding force in my career. His constant support and encouragement have pushed me to expand my boundaries. Dr. Russell has an incredible ability to challenge you while providing the support you need to meet those challenges. His feedback was always constructive and helped me refine my work. Even now, he remains in touch, motivating me to achieve more.

Dr. Faik Hamad

Dr. Faik Hamad has also played a pivotal role in my journey. He has been my mentor since 2017 and was the one who inspired my work on droplet dynamics, a crucial aspect of fluid mechanics. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping my research and career path. Dr. Hamad's expertise in fluid mechanics is unparalleled, and his ability to simplify complex concepts made a significant difference in my understanding and application of these concepts.

Dr. Tariq

Another key figure in my journey has been Dr. Tariq, one of my internal supervisors. Dr. Tariq's insights and support have been invaluable throughout my research, helping me navigate complex challenges and refine my work. His perspective often brought a fresh approach to problem-solving, which was essential in overcoming some of the hurdles I faced during my PhD.

The Challenges and Triumphs

Completing this PhD has been a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. The pandemic brought unique challenges, from limited lab access to the difficulties of remote collaboration. However, these challenges also led to unexpected growth and learning opportunities. I developed new skills in remote collaboration and learned to adapt quickly to changing circumstances.

One of the most challenging aspects was balancing the practical work of designing the prototype with the theoretical research. This required meticulous time management and a deep understanding of both areas. The support from my supervisors and the university's resources were crucial in overcoming these challenges.

The Research: Key Findings and Contributions

My research focused on understanding the effects of various parameters such as temperature, salinity, and droplet dynamics on fluid mechanics. This area is crucial for many applications, including environmental monitoring, industrial processes, and even healthcare.

Temperature Effects

One of the key findings of my research was the significant impact of temperature variations on fluid dynamics. Higher temperatures generally increased the fluid's kinetic energy, leading to more dynamic droplet behaviour. Understanding this relationship is vital for applications where temperature control is critical.

Salinity and Fluid Behaviour

Salinity was another crucial parameter in my research. Changes in salinity affected the fluid's density and viscosity, which in turn influenced droplet formation and behaviour. This finding has significant implications for environmental studies, particularly in understanding the behaviour of pollutants in water bodies.

Droplet Dynamics

Droplet dynamics formed the core of my research. By studying how droplets form, merge, and behave under different conditions, I was able to contribute valuable insights to the field of fluid mechanics. These insights can be applied in various industries, from pharmaceuticals to agriculture.

The Support System

Throughout my PhD journey, the support system at Teesside University was phenomenal. From administrative staff to fellow researchers, everyone played a part in making this journey successful. The collaborative environment fostered innovation and made it easier to overcome challenges.

Future Directions and Opportunities

As I move forward, I am open to collaboration opportunities and am actively seeking new challenges. The knowledge, skills, and mentorship I received have prepared me well for the future. I am particularly interested in applying my research findings in practical applications and continuing to explore the fascinating world of fluid mechanics.

If you're interested in collaborating or would like to discuss potential job opportunities, please feel free to reach out to me. I believe that by working together, we can push the boundaries of what is possible and make significant contributions to our fields.

Personal Growth and Reflections

This PhD journey has not only been about academic growth but also personal development. The challenges I faced taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to navigate uncertainty and remain focused on my goals despite the hurdles. The journey also reinforced the importance of a supportive community and the value of mentorship.