What’s your job title and how long have you been at Loughborough?

Technical Supervisor (Materials) and Deputy School Safety Officer and I’ve been here 11 years.

Tell us what a typical day in your job looks like?

There is no such thing as a typical day for me, you are never sure what each day will bring which is what I enjoy the most. I can go from teaching undergraduate students how to classify a soil, to testing 3D printed concrete columns or operating machines such as fork lifts or excavators. All whilst trying to keep on top of the laboratory risk assessments and inductions as part of my H&S role. I oversee geotechnics in the lab, supporting academic staff, undergraduate dissertation students, and PhD researchers in their work – I suppose you could say I’m an enabler, helping others bring their ideas to life.

What’s your favourite project you’ve worked on?

During my time at Loughborough, I’ve worked on a variety of projects, but my favourite has been the National Engineered Slope Simulator. I’ve been involved from the very beginning – contributing to initial planning discussions, coordinating with contractors on the construction of the new building, and working closely with other staff on the design and installation of all components. This bespoke project has been both challenging and rewarding, involving a steep learning curve and the integration of many new and unfamiliar pieces of equipment.

What is your proudest moment at Loughborough?

Being nominated for a Papin prize for research and being highly commended for my work on the slope alarm project.

Tell us something you do outside of work that we might not know about?

I have done several bungee jumps and a parachute jump to raise money for charity and also I enjoy going to the theatre to see a good musical.

What is your favourite quote?

Have you got a risk assessment for that?

If you would like to feature in ‘5 Minutes With’, or you work with someone who you think would be great to include, please email Lilia Boukikova at L.Boukikova@lboro.ac.uk