A new wave of the brightest and best graduates in energy and power have been awarded places on Cranfield University’s Net Zero Scholarship programme. The high calibre candidates have been hand-picked for their ambition, academic achievements and commitment to driving change at a global level.

Visionary, ambitious leaders are needed to drive change

“The need for highly skilled engineers and leaders in the energy sector has never been greater,” says Professor Phil Hart, Director of Energy and Power. “The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased interest in a ‘green recovery’, and investment in renewables promises employment, economic growth and reduced emissions.

“We need visionary, bold and ambitious leaders to drive that change; and I see the scholarship winners making a big contribution on a global scale.”

Career acceleration for hand-picked candidates

The full-fee scholarships have been awarded to seven exceptional candidates from around the world, and they will work closely with industrial partners, receiving mentoring and career guidance throughout their studies.

Lowri Ch’ng is studying for a Renewable Energy MSc and is looking to specialise in wind technology. Renewable Energy is also being taken by Ngozi Beckly-Lines who is interested in solar/hydro and management, and by Venkatesha Balaraju. Studying Advanced Mechanical Engineering, Helen Ryan has a keen interest in air quality and transport issues and Diego Rodriguez has expressed a desire to drive change in aerospace and alternative fuels. With a background in biology, Nadine Dannemann is studying Advanced Chemical Engineering and is interested in biofuels and hydrogen. Finally, Michelle Watiki, also studying Advanced Chemical Engineering has a keen interest in process and design engineering and will focus on this area during her studies. Each will gain the skills and knowledge in their time at Cranfield to turn their ideals and ideas into real-world impact.

“These are extremely high calibre students who have been hand-picked for this opportunity,” continued Professor Hart. “Working closely with our industry partners on real-world problems, they will quickly be finding solutions to help meet UK and global net zero targets. It is really exciting to be accelerating their knowledge and experience, and I look forward to seeing them make a big impact as their careers develop.”

Organisations who are looking for innovative solutions to move their businesses towards carbon neutrality are encouraged to get in touch to discuss opportunities to work with Cranfield University's Net Zero Scholarship students. In the first instance, companies should email Professor Phil Hart.