Scholar Profile –
Elaine

My main interests are in electronics and semiconductors because they are the key components in driving technology forward. I also enjoy the practical side of soldering circuits and testing them, in addition to learning the theory behind how electronic devices work. I found that electronic engineering has a perfect combination of these things.

I initially applied to Collins Aerospace through the UKESF Driving the Electric Revolution Award, which is aimed at students with an interest in PEMD (power electronics, motors and drives). I was keen to learn more about how this area of electronics applies to the aerospace industry, especially in a large international company. I knew that I would be able to gain vital industrial experience in many different areas of electronics that would ultimately benefit my future career.

In my first placement year, I created a MATLAB script that models an LLC resonant converter, as well as doing research into SiC MOSFETs. I was fortunate to be taken on a trip to Ireland where I visited Microchip to learn more about the future advancement in power semiconductor devices. During my second placement year, I designed a PCB for an insulation monitoring device which I found to be more of a challenge as it was completely new to me, however, it ended up being a very enjoyable task to do!

In my spare time I enjoy reading fiction books, specifically fantasy and sci-fi novels. I also really like learning languages such as French and Chinese. Recently, I climbed Crib Goch (knife-edge) on Snowdon – it was a very daunting activity, but I still thought it was a great accomplishment!