Francesco hadn’t even considered a PhD until he visited the University of Bath as part of his final master's thesis. After that experience, he knew it was the place for him to continue his research.
Not only did his PhD help him on his current career path, but he met his future wife and friends for life at the University.
Read on to discover his journey.
Why did you choose to study at Bath?
Back in 2017, I was nearing the end of my master's degree in materials engineering in Italy. For my final thesis, I was selected for the Erasmus programme and spent six months in Bath, collaborating with a professor from the University.
From my experience with the city and the University, I knew it was the place I wanted to continue my academic journey. I applied for a PhD in mechanical engineering and the University welcomed me first as a visiting student and later as a PhD student, making me feel at home from day one.
Did you have a particular career in mind when you chose your course?
Not specifically. In fact, I wasn’t even considering a PhD as an option before visiting Bath.
However, after spending my initial months there, I came to understand what a PhD in the UK entails – it’s completely different from the system in Italy. This experience inspired me to fully immerse myself in life at the University for the next few years.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here?
My time at the University was a period of profound change in my life. I discovered a completely different concept of university, both as a facility and a community. The campus, events, societies and the city left a lasting impression on me, making it hard to pick a single favourite memory.
To truly illustrate the impact the University has had on me, I’ll share the most important day of my life: 28th September 2024. On that day, Giulia Coccia (PhD Neuroscience) became my wife; Marco Boccaccio (PhD Mechanical Engineering and my desk mate) was my best man; and Davide Di Blasio (PhD Mechanical Engineering and research assistant) officiated our wedding.
I met all three at the University of Bath. Today, Davide and Marco are two of my best friends, and Giulia is my life partner. This is what the University gave me – far more than just an academic experience.
Can you talk a bit about your PhD experience? What was your research focus?
My PhD focused on the development of novel materials for structural applications, particularly for the aerospace sector. The research involved extensive experimental work, with support from technicians and colleagues across various engineering labs. Their collaboration was vital to the success of my project.
Like many experimental research projects, my PhD was significantly impacted by Covid-19. However, the University provided all the support necessary to help me successfully complete my studies.
How did your studies help you to develop, professionally and/or personally?
During my PhD, I developed advanced technical skills in materials engineering which laid the foundation for the first steps of my career.
However, what truly made a difference for me were the soft skills I cultivated during the programme: problem-solving, project planning and management, flexibility and out-of-the-box thinking have been key to my success so far.
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