On June 23rd, we celebrate International Women in Engineering Day. This year, the focus is on profiling the best, brightest, and bravest women in engineering who have #enhancedbyengineering people’s everyday lives and are helping to build a brighter future.

This week, we hear from Dr Nitu Syed (she/her) on what drew her to Engineering and what her experience has been since.

Q1. What did you study at university, and how would you describe your current career?

I completed my PhD in Material Science Engineering in 2020 from RMIT University, Australia. My work is focused on the development of ultra-thin low-dimensional materials for various cutting-edge applications. My projects focus on sustainability and environmental protection.  I completed my M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Bangladesh.

Currently, I am working as a McKenzie fellow at the University of Melbourne. I was awarded the prestigious McKenzie Research Fellowship (total award ~$420K) by the University of Melbourne in 2022. There are only ten fellowships awarded by the University each year and they are keenly sought. The overall success rate for this fellowship is below 2%.

I am also working as an Associate Investigator -ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems (TMOS) and a Visiting Research Fellow at RMIT.

Q2. What initially drew you to the field of engineering?

I always had a natural curiosity about how things work and a strong interest in math, science, and technology. I knew engineering could provide the opportunity to design and build new technologies or improve existing ones can be very appealing. Hence, I always wanted to go into a STEM field and gradually completed my Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees in engineering.

As an engineer, I could apply my knowledge to solving real-world problems and creating innovative solutions that can have a tangible impact on the world. For example, I often work on projects that improve quality of life, such as developing renewable energy solutions, advancing medical technology, and creating sustainable infrastructure. In addition, the engineering degree gave me a lot more diverse options in industry or academia.

However, the field of engineering can often be challenging, but it also offers a sense of achievement when projects are completed successfully, and innovations are realized.

Q3. What do you enjoy most about working in engineering?

Engineering involves a substantial amount of creativity and innovation. Engineers often work on the cutting edge of technology, designing and building new products and systems. As an engineer, I really enjoy designing new products, systems, and technologies, pushing the boundaries. The satisfaction of finding effective solutions and overcoming technical obstacles is a major draw.

I relish the continuous learning and professional growth that comes with staying in my current job. I also appreciate the collaborative aspect of my work, learning from colleagues, and contributing to a diverse set of ideas and skills.

Q4. Can you share your experience of being a woman in engineering?

First of all, as a woman in engineering, I often feel a strong sense of accomplishment and pride in contributing to meaningful projects that solve real-world problems. Many women are currently breaking barriers in engineering and serving as role models for future generations, helping to pave the way for more women in STEM fields. As a female scientist, I also want to inspire both local and overseas female students to pursue a rewarding career in STEM.

However, women are underrepresented in many engineering fields. With fewer women in senior and leadership positions, finding mentors and role models can be difficult, impacting career growth and development. Hence, participating in diversity initiatives and supporting other women in the field can help create a more inclusive environment. The positive side is Australian government and different universities in Australia are encouraging scholarships and grants to be available specifically for women pursuing engineering degrees.

Finally, I can say that balancing such a demanding career with personal and family responsibilities can be challenging, especially in a field known for long hours and high expectations.

Q5. What has been your greatest achievement as an engineer?

My great achievement as an engineer is developing a few groundbreaking projects while working as a PhD scholar and as a Research Fellow in Australia.

For example, designing nanometre-thin flexible touchscreens, large-area piezoelectric nanosheets, and developing ultra-thin ammonia sensors have received widespread media coverage and also acknowledged industry attention throughout the last few years. Till now, I have published several articles in world-renowned journals like Nature Electronics, Nature Communications, Advanced Functional Materials, and ACS Nano.

More importantly, I was recognized as one of Australia’s Most Innovative Engineers in 2020 in the Electronics and Communications category which is a great achievement for any Scientist. I also received a few awards and recognition from RMIT University which can be a testament to an engineer’s contributions and impact.

In my opinion, engineering is a rewarding and dynamic career choice for me.