Please tell us about your role at PNDC
In June 2023, I joined PNDC as a Research and Development Engineer. As part of the Energy System Flexibility & Electrification of Transport team, my role is to conduct collaborative research, development, testing and implementation of projects with a focus on electric vehicle and energy system flexibility technologies that work across multiple energy vectors. As well as applying technical knowledge to industry issues to investigate and quantify problems in power networks, I support industry in developing and testing new and innovative demand-side response solutions.
What was your background before joining PNDC?
I have a BSc in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from the Institute of Electrical & Electronic Engineering known as ‘Inelec’ in Boumerdes/Algeria, an MSc in Renewable Energy Engineering from the University of Aberdeen and an MRes in Future Power Networks and Smart Grids from the University of Strathclyde. I was awarded my PhD at the University of Strathclyde in June 2023. My research centred on “Smart grid solutions enabling the accommodation of additional electric demand in mini-grid infrastructure in rural developing countries”. Before joining PNDC, I worked as a Trading Analyst for a utility provider.
What do you enjoy most about working at PNDC?
The PNDC environment I find to be unique. The atmosphere is very friendly and relaxed, and the team is formed with academics from multicultural backgrounds holding an array of expertise. The research work undertaken within the Centre I find to be interesting and rewarding in moving towards net zero targets.
What can we find you doing in your spare time?
I occupy myself with a variety of activities, each of which is interlinked and helps in my decision-making, well-being and joyfulness. My love for solving jigsaw puzzles helps in improving problem-solving skills, short-term memory and visual-spatial reasoning, and drawing and crafting increase the mind’s creativity. Cooking/baking a variety of food and cakes (Algerian, English, etc) for family/friends brings joy, as well as spending valuable time with them. I like to relax by travelling, visiting museums and listening to a wide range of music, including classical Arabic, English music, rock music, etc. Other things include DIY work, painting and gardening. Running and reading books brings peace of mind, especially detective, psychology, and poetry books; some of the top ones are by Agatha Christie, The 5 Love Languages, The Five People You Meet in Heaven and The Culture Map, which I recommend to others to read.
Connect with Shafiqa on LinkedIn.