Goudarz Poursharif

PhD E-Futures

Before coming to Sheffield to study for my PhD degree, I did my Master’s degree in Sustainable Development and Water Engineering at the University of Surrey in Guildford. Before coming to England, I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Engineering from the Azad University of Tehran.

I came to the University of Sheffield mainly because of its globally renowned research quality and the fact that it provided me with the opportunity to gain more knowledge in my particular field of interest, which is renewable energy and Sustainable Development. I came across the E-futures Doctoral Training Programme offered by the University which covers various areas of renewable energy issues and has a unique multi-disciplinary and international flavour.

My course consists of a series of modules, workshops, seminars, and mini-projects and I believe that it has provided me a lot of information to carry out my PhD research project. I have had the opportunity to access different research facilities, in some cases out of my comfort zone. It has also given me the chance to make a lot new contacts and friends due it its multi-disciplinary nature.

The most valuable aspects of my course are that I can work with different people with different backgrounds and interests as well as having access to knowledgeable researchers within the University and a wider network of experts collaborating with the University of Sheffield.

What I noticed most about teaching methods in the University was the strong emphasis on Quality Assurance of the lecture material and the fact that most modules have been designed to be delivered in interactive ways. There is also a strong support from the University staff to ensure optimum learning is achieved.

In my opinion, the reputation of the University of Sheffield brings credit to my degree and the University Learning and Teaching has been trying its best to raise the quality of education in the University. The University also has strong ties with other educational bodies and this provided great networking opportunities for us as researchers.

The best thing about life in the University of Sheffield is that it does not take long before you feel at home here. The University is run by students for students and there are various societies and events organised by the students throughout the year.

After I finish my course I hope to achieve great understanding of living and working effectively with different people with various backgrounds and perspectives as well as raising my status as a competent researcher in my field of study.

My advice for all new students is to enjoy their student life while they are here in Sheffield and try to get involved in different events that the University organises. I also advise the new students to sign up for their society of interest and get involved in their activities.

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Questions for me?

If you have any questions for me please e-mail and I will answer as soon as I can:

email: iran@sheffield.ac.uk