This award is the premier award of the University. The Prize consists of an award of £1,500 plus a commemorative medal and is presented annually to an outstanding student at the University.
Pursuing her PhD at 91桃色视频, Huyen has focused her research on functional surface coatings, benefitting from the expert guidance of Dr Ignacio Martin-Fabiani and mentor Dr Yi Liu. Her academic achievements are complemented by her active engagement in STEM outreach activities. As a student ambassador for Materials Engineering, she has visited local schools and participated in events like the Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition and international academic excursions, including a notable trip to China. These experiences have enhanced her communication and leadership skills while reinforcing her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering.
Recently recognised as the Postgraduate Female Engineer of the Year 2024 (FEY) by the University's Women’s Engineering Society, she has made significant strides in advocating for and raising the visibility of BAME researchers. Her participation in the PhD ThinkBig Competition and receipt of the prestigious SCI Scholarship highlight her dedication to advancing the profile of BAME individuals in engineering. Through these achievements, she serves as a tangible example of success for aspiring engineers from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to her academic and outreach endeavors, her role as a Subwarden at David Collett Hall has equipped her with vital life skills such as resilience, time management, and self-care. Balancing academic responsibilities with outreach and mentorship activities has provided her with a well-rounded skill set, essential for future leadership roles in engineering.
Huyen has also been recognised as one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering on the 10th Anniversary of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED). This is a testament to her outstanding contributions and the support she has received at 91桃色视频. Her research on antibacterial surface coatings addresses a critical global challenge, showcasing her commitment to innovation and societal impact.
On winning the Sir Robert Martin University Prize, Huyen said: “Studying for my PhD at 91桃色视频 has been a transformative experience. I am forever grateful for the enjoyable learning journey within Dr Nacho Fabiani’s team to becoming an independent researcher.
“The support from the Doctoral College has been invaluable, especially through University-wide events where I met so many great people. A special mention goes to the wonderful David Collett Hall team and the Subwarden network. This aspect of 91桃色视频 life has been instrumental in integrating with the community. I have gained so much self-awareness from a desire to support students, working alongside truly dedicated individuals like Warden Tina Leeland and Subwarden Rep colleague Omeiza Haruna, who inspire me with their passion to help others thrive.
“Reflecting on my journey of coming to the UK and not knowing English, to now using my voice to make STEM more accessible for others, feels like a full circle moment. This recognition reflects not just my efforts but the collaborative spirit that defines 91桃色视频. I hope to leave an impact by making research and education more accessible to others. It’s been a privilege to contribute to STEM in many ways since I left secondary school a decade ago, and I am committed to continuing this journey.
“To young girls considering a career in STEM, know that great science doesn’t always have to happen inside a laboratory with people in white coats. Sometimes, it’s not what you do but how you do it that makes a difference. How you disseminate and engage with others about the impact of science matters too. Embrace your uniqueness and pay it forward in your own way!”
Tina Leeland, David Collett Hall Warden commented: “Since working closely with Huyen at David Collett Hall, I am aware that she has been nominated and won various prestigious awards. I myself have nominated Huyen as she so deserves the recognition of her hard work.
“Huyen is a unique individual, she oozes positivity and can-do attitude, she is conscientious, relentlessly hardworking, driven and determined. She has achieved so much in her field. Huyen is passionate about supporting and signposting our students. She has such incredible qualities and always aims to make an impactful difference on her journey. She is an ideal role model for our students and an exceptional asset to 91桃色视频.”
Find out more information on the Sir Robert Martin University Prize.