Tag Archives: University

Doctorate Graduation in Leeds

by on 28 December 2023 in Education, Sciences

This summer, one year after having passed my PhD viva and becoming Doctor, my academic adventure at the University of Leeds came to an end with my graduation ceremony, where I formally received my MSc in Chemical Engineering and my PhD on the study of Particle Breakage in Agitated Drying Conditions.

The inspiring speeches from the teaching staff during the ceremony highlighted the fundamental values ​​that accompanied my studies, such as knowledge, rigour, and the ability to combine critical thinking and open-mindedness.

It was the opportunity to meet with my former colleagues within the CDT CP3 doctoral training program, my master’s professors and my PhD supervisors at this prestigious university. What a joy to experience this unique moment of my life and celebrate with my family the outcome of 6 years of research, projects, conferences and studies. I thank again all the people and institutions who made this journey possible and who guided me towards the love of excellence and self-realisation.

With my PhD supervisor Professor Frans Muller

It was then time for me to enjoy the presence of my family and explore Ireland, a country with a captivating culture and infinite landscapes, the contemplation of which lending itself splendidly to meditation and the writing of my next articles.

Siabh Liag in Donegal, Ireland (Photo: François Hallac, 2023)

PhD Viva Passed and Becoming Doctor

by on 30 June 2022 in Education, Sciences

After nearly 4 hours of intense review of my thesis, it is with great joy that I passed my PhD viva on Friday and have become doctor.

Notwithstanding the actual tendency to move all activities online since the pandemic, I couldn’t imagine living this moment and receiving the outcome of so many years of work and dedication through an internet cable. I remember the feeling I had when submitting my thesis in March from my bedroom, and the sudden sensation of silence when the writing stage was formally done.

Having made the travel to Leeds from London, despite of the rail strikes, being present in Leeds and interacting with my examiners in the same room gave me a sensation I couldn’t have felt from distance. The same way being at a concert differs from watching a video, living this special moment physically made me receive from my senses what my mind could only conceive in abstract, and I am grateful to my external examiner for having accepted to travel to Leeds for my viva.

I’m delighted I have been able to celebrate this accomplishment with my former colleagues at the University of Leeds and my friends in the city, living the end of this chapter of life imprinted with nostalgia for my wonderful 5 years there as a PhD student.

I’d like to thank my supervisors and sponsors for their support during my PhD. In this moment, I have my deepest feeling of gratitude for my parents who provided me with an unconditional support throughout my life and always encouraged me to reach my objectives.