Our ‘Meet the Team’ series continues with Harry Delalis, Associate Optical Engineer, who tells us about his journey out of academia and gives some advice for STEM students interested in flexible organic electronics.
1. Was science and engineering always your chosen career path?
Ever since I was in high school, I knew that pursuing a career in science was my calling. I received my undergraduate education in Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, which provided me with a solid foundation in both physical sciences and engineering. This gave me the necessary skills to tackle technical challenges that require both fundamental understanding and practical thinking.
I then went on to earn my MSc in Optoelectronics and Quantum Technologies, which allowed me to delve into the niche field of photonic quantum computing, specifically examining the role of optics in this area. Through these experiences, I have acquired the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a career in the field of optics.
2. What it is like to come from university into a real engineering job?
Making the transition from academia to industry can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and attitude it can be a rewarding experience. A solid educational foundation is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for further development and growth. However, it’s important to understand that the transition also requires a significant amount of personal effort and dedication.
One of the key differences between academia and industry is the fast-paced nature of the latter. In industry, the ability to adapt quickly and efficiently is crucial for success. One way to gain a better understanding of the specific needs and demands of a company is to participate in meetings and gain insight into tasks and challenges that may arise. Overall the transition is not easy, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can be a valuable and fulfilling experience.
3. What aspects of your current job do you find most interesting or exciting?
In my current role, I find the constant challenges and variety of projects and tasks to be particularly engaging, and the diversity of assignments keeps my work interesting and stimulating. Additionally, the supportive and collaborative culture within the company, as well as the opportunity to learn and grow in various areas such as coding and simulations, make this job a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Lastly, I find it very exciting that I always have to learn and keep reading and researching as our projects require a very broad understanding of both the fundamentals and the practical aspects.
4. What advice would you give to a student of a STEM subject who wanted to pursue a career in flexible organic electronics?
The field of organic electronics is a cutting-edge and rapidly evolving area that holds enormous potential. It offers a unique blend of physics and engineering, making it an exciting and challenging field to work in. For those considering a career in organic electronics and flexible LC optics, I would highly encourage you to pursue it.
The field is full of new and exciting developments, and the potential applications are truly fascinating. From improving existing technologies to introducing novel solutions, organic electronics has the power to enhance our lives and drive technological progress forward. Overall, it’s a field that never gets boring and always has something new to learn.
