Pablo Giordani Serrano

PhD researcher

As I progress through my PhD, I’ve found that I am becoming an experienced professional, able to look at the fundamentals of a problem and consider the steps of an effective research methodology.

What made you choose to come and study at Southampton?

The best infrastructure related to acoustics research. The Institute of Sound and Vibration Research is known as one of the best institutes in the field. The language and the location also helped.

Can you provide a summary of the research you are working on within your course?

I am developing 3D printed liners for aircraft engines in order to reduce fan noise. The main problem is how to design the engine, so we use laboratory experimental techniques and numerical computational models to predict the acoustic behaviour. I am looking at the interactions of several tones present on the fan sound signature and how the harmonics may influence the acoustic behaviour of the liner in the presence of grazing flow and high sound pressure levels.

How have the facilities available at the University helped you with your research? Which facilities have you used/ do you use regularly?

I used the portable impedance meter, as a loan from Rolls Royce Germany, but the 3D printers available to use on campus were essential for producing my samples. The offices and staff have been helping in all aspects of my work. The library, electronic resources, and also the events here have been helping me to shape my research and evolve as a citizen.

What is it like studying here? Do you have a good work-life balance?

Yes, I have access to all the resources needed. I am very focused on my work at the moment, and the environment here provides me with the flexibility of time to produce at a good pace. I am more aware about my health and I am trying to balance my work and social life by attending socials, parties and having good eating habits.

What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ so far?

The Future Words events and support, and the entrepreneurship programs, are giving me the opportunity to tailor my soft skills. My time here has been very beneficial for me and my future entrepreneurial journey.

What other activities have you taken advantage of while at University?

I have been going to the gym at least three times a week. I joined the Brazilian society, which is very fun. But I would say that the entrepreneurial events are the best activities I have taken part in so far.

What are you enjoying most about your course?

As I progress, I am becoming a very thorough and experienced professional, looking at the fundamentals of a problem and learning the steps of a good and effective research methodology. The budget support the Faculty provides us with is fundamental to present our work at conferences and other technical meetings.

Do you have any idea of what you would like to do in the future? Have the opportunities you have taken up while at the University helped you have a clearer idea of what you might like to do?

I have been inspired to set up my own business in my home country. Yes, the events, courses and boot camps I have been involved with at Southampton certainly are the reasons for this choice.

Do you like living in Southampton? What are the benefits of Southampton as a city?

The city of Southampton provides a good working environment, as it’s fairly quiet and not as busy as other cities like London.

What advice would you give to prospective University of Southampton PhD students?

It is important to be mentally prepared and determined to work hard and be focus on what you will do. You can be very independent, but it is also good to seek advice and build your network of mentors to help you to go further.