"Global statistics indicate that nearly 30% of the world’s population lacks access to safely managed drinking water, while approximately 80% of wastewater is released into the environment untreated and approximately 20% of the world’s freshwater is believed to be at risk due to metal contamination", notes PhD candidate Reshma Nair, who is developing an innovative, cost-effective solution to these toxic metal contaminants.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background/previous career?
I was born and brought up in Kerala, India, until I first came to the UK four years ago to pursue my master's degree. I have a bachelor's degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from India, which I was just about to finish when the COVID-19 pandemic began. After the pandemic, I moved to the UK and completed my master's degree in Renewable Energy from Edinburgh Napier University. Following that, I received an offer to pursue a PhD and joined London Met.
What made you want to study your PhD at London Met in particular?
The main reason I chose to study my PhD at London Met is the project, which aligns perfectly with my expertise. It is a fully-funded program through a Vice-Chancellor's scholarship that is open to international students. Additionally, my supervisor, Priyanka, has an impressive research track record, which further solidified my decision to pursue this project.
I understand your PhD involves a special kind of metal detection. Can you explain more?
The DETECT (Disposable sEnsors for meTal detECTion) is an interdisciplinary project initiative focused on developing sustainable, biodegradable electronics for real-time monitoring of heavy metal pollutants in water and soil, addressing critical environmental and health challenges. Global statistics indicate that nearly 30% of the world’s population lacks access to safely managed drinking water, while approximately 80% of wastewater is released into the environment untreated and approximately 20% of the world’s freshwater is believed to be at risk due to metal contamination, highlighting the pressing issue of heavy metal contamination. Once released, these metals are non-biodegradable and accumulate in ecosystems, leading to severe health effects in both humans and animals.
DETECT aims to provide a flexible, low-cost, and portable sensory solution that enables rapid, on-site detection of toxic metals using printed sensors made from eco-friendly materials. By integrating wireless communication via NFC, the sensors can function as smart tags for digital agriculture and water quality monitoring. The goal is to offer a user-friendly, low-cost, and portable solution for on-site detection of metal pollutants, particularly across London and Greater London, enabling citizens, farmers and policymakers to assess water and soil quality instantly.
How have you benefitted from working with academics across two different schools at the University?
Although I am pursuing my PhD in chemistry, my background is in electrical and electronics engineering. Working with academics across both schools has allowed me to learn new concepts related to chemistry while polishing my existing knowledge with the engineering team. I have connected with others who share similar backgrounds, and I can utilise resources and support from both departments, which has been extremely beneficial for my project.
What do you hope the impact will be of your research?
I hope that the impact of my research will be significant in advancing sustainability and addressing critical environmental issues. By developing innovative solutions, I aim to contribute to cleaner and safer ecosystems. I aspire to inspire young minds in the field and promote a greater awareness of the importance of sustainable practices in both industry and everyday life. If I can successfully tackle even a single mind and make a meaningful contribution to sustainability, I would consider my efforts a success.
What's been most challenging about being a research student?
One of the challenges I face is that, despite having flexible hours, I often become deeply immersed in my research and spend long periods alone, which gradually affects my social life.
And the another is managing stress. In research, you can face unexpected problems at any moment, and deadlines can feel overwhelming. I like to think of research as digging for water in a well. We expect there’s water at the bottom, but we don’t know how deep we need to dig. Sometimes it’s easy to find, but other times, we have to dig much deeper. We may encounter obstacles, like rocks, that we need to break through to move forward. There are moments when, despite our hard work, we may not find what we’re looking for and have to change our approach. I feel blessed to have experienced researchers as my supervisors. Their guidance has made this journey much easier so far.
How have you found the professors / teachers?
I have found the professors and staff to be incredibly supportive and approachable. Even though my first supervisor, Dr Priyanka Ganguly, wasn’t always physically present, she was always just a phone call away. My other supervisors, Dr Bhaven Patel and Prof Bal Virdee, are also very supportive and always willing to guide me in any way they can. The initial days were challenging, but having their support made everything much easier.
What drives you?
My ambitions and family drive me. My husband is very proud of me and celebrates every achievement as if it were his own. My mother, who is my first teacher, is the reason behind where I am today. She dreamed of pursuing higher education but couldn’t, so she wants me to fulfil that dream with flying colours.
What are you most proud of in your life so far?
I am most proud of my journey so far. As the first graduate in my family, I moved to a new country alone, without any friends or family, breaking the stereotype from my village where girls were often discouraged from going abroad. I successfully earned my master’s degree while funding myself through various part-time jobs. Additionally, I managed to publish my master’s work in a high-impact journal and secured a fully funded PhD scholarship. Each of these achievements represents a battle I have won, and they continue to inspire and motivate me.
Do you have a favourite place within the University and why?
My favourite place within the University is the main science lab, where I spend most of my time researching. It’s a fun environment, as one side focuses on chemistry, while the other explores pharmaceuticals, microbiology and even forensics. I love being surrounded by many young faces filled with determination and curiosity, which brings me a lot of joy.
Are you a member of any research groups/centres at London Met, or any clubs/societies here?
I am not currently a member of any formal groups, but in our department, we hold research meetings every Wednesday. During these meetings, students and lecturers present their work and discuss the challenges and needs of researchers. It’s a great opportunity for collaboration and sharing ideas.
Tell us a little bit about your interests outside of uni and why they are important to you.
Outside of university, I enjoy reading books and watching movies, especially in the sci-fi and fantasy genres. They allow me to escape reality and encourage me to think outside the box. Recently, I’ve developed a passion for archery, which the University offers for free every Tuesday and Thursday. I find it to be a great way to stay focused and relax.
What's your plan when you complete your PhD, and how do you think London Met will help you succeed in this?
After completing my PhD, I plan to pursue a postdoctoral position in industry and aim to become a full-fledged scientist. The training I am receiving from my supervisors in various areas, including soft skills and academic knowledge, is incredibly valuable for achieving my goals. I believe that my experiences at London Met will provide a strong foundation for my future success.
Any tips for research students new to London Met?
It's important to embrace the journey, which can be a rollercoaster of both highs and lows. You may face challenges like stress, loneliness and self-doubt, but believing in yourself and pushing through is essential. Make the most of the University's resources and use your time wisely, as it flies. Stay organised and maintain a positive mindset, knowing that obstacles and setbacks are part of the process; each failure offers a lesson for a brighter tomorrow. If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to ask for help – you can always find supportive people around you in London Met.
As the first graduate in my family, I moved to a new country alone, without any friends or family, breaking the stereotype from my village where girls were often discouraged from going abroad.
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