Join us as we generate insight into the careers of researchers with our new Academic Spotlight Interviews. Watch and listen to these thought leaders, and innovators as we bring to you a collection of fascinating conversations. This interview series will showcase the cutting-edge teaching and research that is shaping the future of academia.
From the realms of science, engineering and technology to computer games and city planning, each interview with our featured experts shares new knowledge and passion for their chosen academic disciplines and discusses the challenges of their individual and diverse fields.
Join us in celebrating the pursuit of knowledge through the individuals who are pushing the boundaries of what we know and inspire your intellectual curiosity.
Episode 11 – Dr. Gill Frigerio – University of Warwick
Dr Gill Frigerio is an Associate Professor at the University of Warwick, leading the Centre for Lifelong Learning’s Career Studies and Coaching programmes.
In this interview, she shares her journey into academia, the challenges and joys of teaching, and why career development is about more than just ticking boxes. From training practitioners to researching how people find purpose in their work, Dr Frigerio is shaping a more thoughtful, human approach to careers.
Watch the full interview to see how she’s making a difference — one student, one practitioner at a time.
Episode 10 – Dr. James Gill – University of Warwick
Dr. James Gill, a GP and Clinical Lecturer at the University of Warwick, reflects on his unconventional journey into medicine and his passion for teaching. Known for simplifying complex ideas, he uses creative methods to empower students.
His research explores AI-driven feedback to enhance learning. For Dr. Gill, the heart of his work lies in “caring for people and truly seeing the person in front of you.” His dedication to patient care and teaching continues to inspire students. Watch the full interview to learn more about his innovative projects and impactful career.
Episode 9 – Dr. Elinor Macfarlane – Cardiff University
In this inspiring interview, Dr. Elinor Macfarlane shares her journey as a Clinical Evaluation Scientist and a recent PhD graduate from Cardiff University. She discusses the unique challenges and triumphs of starting her Vision Science research during the pandemic. Elinor reflects on how she navigated those tough moments, adapting to new circumstances and finding creative solutions along the way.
She offers valuable tips for anyone considering a PhD, encouraging aspiring students to embrace their own paths, no matter how daunting they may seem. Elinor reminds us that challenges can lead to growth and new opportunities. Join us to hear her inspiring story and discover how to tackle your own academic journey with confidence!
Episode 8 – Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham – Kings College London
As a Pharmacist and Senior Lecturer in Pharmaceutics at King’s College London, Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham’s academic spotlight interview discusses how science and research paved the way for her academic career. She loves that no two days in her job are the same and that she inspires her students by setting an example and preparing them for the real world.
Discover more about Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham, including her reasons for choosing her area of expertise and the significant impact of her research. Uncover the passion that fuels her love for her work and inspires her dedication to science and education.
Episode 7 – Dr Elizabeth Berry – New York Medical College
This month at jobs.ac.uk, we had the pleasure of interviewing the amazing Dr. Elizabeth Berry. Currently an assistant professor at New York Medical College, Dr. Berry shares the emotional highs and lows of her PhD journey, the challenges of transitioning from student to professional, and her experience finding a place in academia.
Elizabeth’s academic spotlight interview offers valuable insights and advice for those starting or completing a PhD. Watch her full interview here!
Episode 6 – Professor Carlo Harvey – Birmingham City University
Professor Carlo Harvey discusses all things games! From an early age, Carlo has been inspired by the science and technology behind computer games development, leading him to pursue a degree in computer science at the University of Bristol and a PhD at the University of Warwick. Now a Professor at Birmingham City University and subject lead for games, Carlo’s career is marked by numerous publications, awards, and an inspiring teaching style that bridges academia and practice.
Watch Carlo’s full interview to find out more about his career in academia.
Episode 5 – Professor Eva Lantsoght – Universidad San Francisco de Quito
With a passion for STEM and research, Professor Eva Lantsoght talks to jobs.ac.uk about why she chose an academic career in engineering. As a child, she was always in awe of bridges and high structures, and she wanted a career that could positively impact society.This encouraged her to pursue a PhD and then secure a postdoc job. Eva is currently a Professor of structural engineering at Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Quito, Ecuador.
Watch Eva’s full interview to find out more about her career in academia.
Episode 4 – Professor Stephen Heard, University of New Brunswick
Professor Stephen Heard is an evolutionary ecologist and entomologist. His journey into academia stems from a love of learning. Stephen’s passion for discovering and sharing new knowledge through research and teaching is something he finds rewarding and at the core of what he does.
Watch Stephen’s full interview to learn more about his field, what he likes about his career and research tips.
Episode 3 – Dr Silvia Gullino, Birmingham City University
This month, we had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Silvia Gullino, Associate Professor in City Making at Birmingham City University. With a wealth of experience, Silvia’s academic career stems from a passion to make meaningful changes and impact on society. Championing women in the built environment, in her interview, she tells us about the important work she does to help women get into the field, how she got into academia, and her path to her role at BCU. Watch her full interview and find out more about her.
Episode 2 – Katie Sharrocks, Imperial College London
Scientist Katie Sharrocks embarked on her Ph.D. journey in 2020, navigating a global pandemic. Now in her 4th and final year at Imperial College London, in her inspiring academic spotlight interview, she offers advice about how to get started with a Ph.D. and discusses why she chose her current specialism.
Click below to read and watch more about Katie’s academic journey.
Episode 1 – Shravani Sharma, WMG, University of Warwick
The talented Shravani Sharman kicks off our academic spotlight interviews! She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering at WMG with a specialisation in human factors.
Read about Shravani’s path into academia, why she chose her area of expertise, the impact of her research, and discover the passion that fuels her love for what she does.
*If you work in academia and would like to participate in jobs.ac.uk Academic Spotlight interviews, please contact us at paula@jobs.ac.uk