Graduation stories

Meet some of our recent PhD and Masters graduates and hear what they say about studying at our world-renowned research institute.

Autumn 2019 Graduates

What were your most memorable/valuable moments at ABI as a student?
It’s been such a journey for me, from learning very basic terminologies to developing very advanced concepts and technologies. I have met many fine people, read their authorships, and been in their labs. ABI’s people are priceless and I am grateful to be a part of this team. From the beginning, I decided to start my daily work mostly around sunrise, I was the first person who opened the institute’s door for about 4 years! This made my journey unique, joyful and very productive. I am not in ABI anymore, however, I am still a happy early-bird guy!
What are your plans once you have graduated from your PhD programme?
I am currently collaborating with a team of orthopaedic surgeons, using my computational frameworks to improve the delivery of complex, high tibial osteotomy, a joint-preserving surgery.
If you could give some advice to future PhD students at ABI, what would that be?
In general, I will tell them that “you are in the best institute in the world, everything is just ready for you and your project and you will shine soon. If you have any issue with anything in ABI, don’t be shy, knock a door and ask for the help. I am pretty sure that they will welcome you and be with you till resolving the issue.“

What were your most memorable/valuable moments at ABI as a student?
The ABI gives a lot of opportunity to be exposed to both experimental and numerical research. Many great memories were made driving Steve up the wall with my lack of workshop knowledge.
What are your plans once you have graduated from your PhD programme?
Hopefully find a job, I am looking at both academic and industry related positions overseas, for a bit of a break from the UoA.
If you could give some advice to future PhD students at ABI, what would that be?
Don't take your first year too seriously, and don't try and rush to get results. Take some time to look at how other people solve problems, to give yourself some perspective. Get involved in helping other students and staff perform experiments and solve tasks, to learn as many different methods and approaches as you can. These may help you understand your own work from a different perspective, which can help to overcome problems later on. Also listen to what Steve has to say, he is right most of the time.

What were your most memorable/valuable moments at ABI as a student?
My most memorable moments were definitely the hours spent at late nights and early mornings writing code and running simulations...with greetings by the security guard and running across the road to the local 24/7.
What are your plans once you have graduated from your PhD programme?
I'm going straight to work, as I've been studying for far too long! I've taken a liking to image processing, biomechanics, and modelling, and will continue working in these areas in academia and industry.
If you could give some advice to future PhD students at ABI, what would that be?
Speaking for the PhD degree, this is the only time where slightly more leeway is given for exploring new methods and learning new skills and tools. Learn the most recent software or programming techniques, sharpen these skills by enhancing your presentations and data processing methods, and you'll remain highly competitive when you finish your degree.

What were your most memorable/valuable moments at ABI as a student?
Achieving my acceptance into ABI after 1 year was one of the most valuable moments and finding my place in Dr. Angeli’s team was the most memorable moments in my journey as a student at the University.
What are your plans once you have graduated from your Masters programme?
I intend and aspire to do more work that can contribute towards our better future.
If you could give some advice to future ME students at ABI, what would that be?
To engage and collaborate with all possible staff at ABI. With it’s resourceful facilities, you can develop a wide range of skills.

What were your most memorable/valuable moments at ABI as a student?
The adventures and connections made with people all over the world. Not to mention learning how to make a decent coffee and then getting other people to make you a better one (thanks Biomimetics lab!)
What are your plans once you have graduated from your Masters programme?
Currently none, taking some time off before facing real life adulthood.
If you could give some advice to future ME students at ABI, what would that be?
If you are in the Biomimetics lab, don't leave your email open and unprotected! Many misCAKES were made.

What were your most memorable/valuable moments at ABI as a student?
The most memorable moment was probably the massive drop in heart rate/blood pressure I felt once I submitted my ME thesis, I had to sit down for a few minutes! I can't pinpoint a most valuable moment but the sum of my experiences as a student has definitely made me a better researcher, and it's been a lot of fun along the way.
What are your plans once you have graduated from your Masters programme?
Back into study, I've applied for the PhD programme at the ABI. I've submitted all the paperwork so just waiting for confirmation now.
If you could give some advice to future ME students at ABI, what would that be?
Don't be afraid to take ownership of your project and challenge your supervisors (sometimes). They're extremely knowledgeable and helpful but no-one will be more familiar with your project than you.