Public engagement committee
The Committee reps act as a single point of contact for all public engagement matters for the cohort: they have the contacts, the expertise and (perhaps most importantly) the funds to support and facilitate activities for the wider student body.
Gökhan Sancak (2022 cohort)
What did you study prior to joining the CoSEM CDT and why?
I began my academic journey as a military student at the Turkish Air Force Academy in 2014, where I received both military and engineering training for two years. I then continued my studies in Aeronautical Engineering at Istanbul Technical University, completing my degree there in 2019. Aviation, particularly military aviation, has always fascinated me. Over time, I became drawn to the engineering side of aviation and space, which shaped the direction of my career and inspired my curiosity in advanced materials and structures used in aerospace applications.
What made you choose a PhD in Advanced Composites?
When I discovered the Advanced Composites PhD programme, I immediately felt it was the right opportunity to return to academia after a break. The programme offered the perfect environment to refresh my knowledge, gain new skills, and grow through hands-on experience. It opened a door to the kind of learning and research atmosphere I had been looking for for a long time.
Why is it important research students actively communicate their research to the public?
I believe that as researchers, our goal should not be limited to answering our own questions. As social beings, we also need to nurture the questioning and thought-provoking side of communication. Public engagement strengthens this mutual exchange and allows us not only to share our knowledge but also to be challenged, to rethink, and to grow through dialogue. I also see it as a vital way to inspire young minds and raise awareness about the importance of research in shaping our future.
How do you think we can make composites more accessible to the general public?
When we think about future generations, ensuring the sustainability of the composites sector through continuous research, innovation, and education, becomes essential. I also believe that by developing more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes, we can make composite technologies more accessible to the public. Increasing the public awareness of how composites contribute to sustainability and everyday applications can help people see their relevance beyond the lab.
What do you hope to achieve as a Public Engagement Committee rep?
I hope that my involvement in public engagements will contribute meaningfully to my research, both in terms of content and purpose. At the same time, I aim that the research project we carry out at BCI will inspire and guide some of the individuals we interact with, helping them in their future studies and research journeys.