October 7, 2024, by bbztlg

Understanding a circular economy from a global perspective

Sarah Kwamboka Omwoyo, a researcher in Advanced Chemical Engineering, tells us about her placement experience at Sustainable Extricko.

Sarah Kwamboka Omwoyo

I first heard about the Researcher Academy Placement Programme during one of the career information events hosted by the university. I learnt that the programme offered postgraduate students the opportunity to develop their professional skills while pursuing their studies at the university.

One of the key reasons I chose to pursue my master’s degree was to advance my knowledge in designing cost-effective circular economy solutions while addressing the inherent sustainability and cost variations in global supply chains. Therefore, the placement opportunity to work with Sustainable Extricko on a circular economy research project resonated with me. The application, interview and onboarding process were seamless. I received adequate support and guidance from Sustainable Extricko and the Researcher Academy during this period.

My placement experience was well-paced, insightful and rewarding. It was remote-based, and I met the team almost on a bi-weekly basis. The meetings required me to share my progress and identify areas where I needed additional support. They empowered me to improve my project management and communication skills. The company also allowed me to take leadership in my work. This approach enabled me to develop my time management skills further. I learnt the art of managing competing priorities effectively while ensuring consistency in the quality of my deliverables. Additionally, the company accommodated my academic commitments and allowed me to take a break from the project during my exams.

During the placement, I got the opportunity to interact with experts across various disciplines of circular economy. The highlight of my placement experience was when I had the privilege to attend a symposium on marine pollution that aimed to bridge the gap between research and policies to address sustainability challenges within the marine industry. I also got the opportunity to develop and present a poster on my research on the impact of circular economy policies in the industry. The symposium further developed my perspective on the global impact of unsustainable products and the critical role of integrated global sustainable policies in mitigating environmental degradation.

My placement experience further provided additional insights into the critical role of circular economy policies in advancing sustainable engineering design and processes. They challenge the general preconception that unsustainable products are typically cheaper to produce. They realise the environmental costs of the products that are generally ignored and transferred to vulnerable communities. Their holistic implementation paves the way for the development of sustainable products and guarantees sustainable protection of our natural resources.

Overall, my placement experience was valuable and insightful. It enabled me to develop my professional skills including time management, project management, and communication skills. Besides, it complemented my academic journey in enhancing my research, technical writing and critical thinking skills.

I would highly recommend the placement opportunities to postgraduate students. They offer a flexible and dynamic alternative to building professional skills while pursuing your studies. You could find an opportunity that aligns with your career goals that would provide you with valuable perspectives and enhance your professional development.

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