Student profile: Alex Petkov
What is the topic of your research?
What are you aiming to do and how does it relate to other work in your field?
I'm working on devices for high voltage applications (suitable for power lines and data centres). More specifically, I'm studying gallium oxide as a promising material, because of its high breakdown field.
My work involves simulating and characterising thermal and electrical transport across interfaces of gallium oxide with other materials. Gallium oxide has low thermal conductivity, which can be an issue for a functioning device, so my main aim is to find a way to bond it to a higher thermal conductivity substrate without compromising gallium oxide's beneficial electrical properties.
How far along the journey are you? First year, second year, writing-up etc.?
What has the journey been like so far?
In summer 2021 I am going into my third year of working on this project. The journey has been quite tumultuous. Getting results and finding solutions to various problems is a truly rewarding experience. On the other hand, there is also the frustration of reaching a dead end or of being faced with other unforeseen obstacles to your work.
Of course, while the main point of the research degree is the research itself, it doesn't have to be all there is to your experience. I've been lucky enough to also find other things to be involved with that can help me improve my professional competences. I've taken part in teaching as well as working together with staff as a student representative. These have also become intrinsic aspects to my experience as a researcher in Bristol.
What attracted you to the research opportunities in Bristol?
I was attracted to pursuing my postgraduate studies in Bristol due to the seemingly large amount of choice here. After finishing my MPhys, I was looking to continue studying condensed matter physics, though not necessarily with a topic to directly follow on from my undergraduate research. As such, the Centre for Doctoral Training in Condensed Matter in Bristol seemed just like what I was looking for - having a more flexible first year with time to explore different topics before finally settling on a project.
What is Bristol like as a place to live?
I quite enjoy Bristol. The different parts of the city have their own atmospheres, and there's a decent number of places worth going to. I like the proximity to green areas such as Leigh Woods and Ashton Court, as well as the relaxing air round the harbourside. Because of the many steep hills, I certainly cycle a lot less than I used to before moving here. Bristol can also be a fairly expensive place to live in.
What was it like starting a research degree as a new student?
What advice would you give to someone thinking about doing a research degree in Bristol Physics?
Starting a research degree can be intimidating, especially if you don't have pre-existing contacts at the university. It can take time to get used to. I don't think there's much advice I can give that is Bristol-specific, but if you're looking to pursue a research degree in Physics here, there's a few general things to keep in mind, I believe.
First of all, who you work with really matters. The more interaction with an academic and their team you can have before undertaking a project with them, the better - think about whether the environment they foster would suit or benefit you.
Second, consider the prospective project. It's a good sign if it builds on a foundation of previous research undertaken in the group, or if there's direct industry interest involved. This means you'd be more likely to get decent support during your research.
Finally, remember that this would be your research experience. Don't hesitate to get involved with or work on the things that make you feel most fulfilled.