Lydia Peddle

Current Employer/Organisation Name

University of Bath

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I took a short break from academia after my BSc where I worked at Taylor & Francis in their Journals department. After returning to Exeter to complete my MSc, I have now moved on to undertake a PhD at the University of Bath, in their Architecture and Civil Engineering department. My research topic is the sustainable development of community based bamboo industry in Indonesia.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I really enjoy research and the working environment provided by Universities, in particular I enjoy engaging in interdisciplinary research, as my current position allows. In my current sustainability research, I find working towards a solution to a large global challenge particularly rewarding (even if the contribution of my research is minuscule by comparison!).

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

Being taught by active researchers, and thus being involved in their research was particularly inspiring for me.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

It’s position in the league tables, coupled with the community feel that the campus and student body creates.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

The presentation and public speaking skills I gained whilst completing my degree. As well as experience gained from being taught by active researchers.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Don’t be afraid of asking academics about their research or for advice about how to pursue a career in their area of research yourself. Also to engage with the opportunities offered by the university as much as you can, it gives you lots of useful things to say in application forms and interviews.

What are your plans for the future?

Complete my PhD and hopefully get a post-doc research position.