During 2025, Eleni Georgiou undertook a 14-week research placement from February to May at Monash University, Melbourne, supervised by Associate Professor Matthieu Gresil and Professor Neil Cameron. Eleni was also hosted by Professor Luke Henderson at the Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM), Deakin University in Geelong.
Eleni’s research focused on the chemical and mechanical characterisation of the interface between basalt fibres and epoxy resin, and more specifically the effect of resin modification on these parameters. The work conducted at Monash and Deakin supported the overall goal of the PhD project which is to work towards improved compressive strength of basalt composites, and has also prompted new research questions to be explored at Bristol.
Reflecting on the experience, Eleni said:
‘My placement was an invaluable experience from both a personal and professional perspective. It provided the opportunity for me to live abroad and travel alone for the first time, and build connections both professionally and socially (especially when feeding the kangaroos and meeting Emily the koala). Whilst in Melbourne, I was able to collaborate with research groups at Monash and Deakin Universities. I also visited Carbon Nexus, a unique open-access carbon fibre composite research facility located at Deakin, and Australia's Defence Science and Technology Group, where I presented my project to researchers in the Materials team. Overall, the work I conducted at Monash and Deakin was incredibly valuable to my PhD and I'm very grateful for the time, knowledge, and support from all the researchers I worked with during my time in Melbourne.'
From May to August 2025, Jacopo Lavazza completed a 12-week placement at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, under the supervision of Professor Neil Cameron.
Jacopo’s research centered on growing bone tissue on novel scaffolds obtained from bio-based polyurethane foams. The study was strongly multidisciplinary, bridging materials science, engineering and biology. The topic is currently being explored further in an extended collaboration.
Reflecting on the placement, Jacopo said:
“The placement was extremely valuable for me. Coming from a materials engineering background, I had never experienced the challenges and gratification that come from growing cells! I got out of my comfort zone, both personally and academically, and I have to thank the CoSEM CDT for the incredible opportunity and Neil for hosting me. The work we performed led to some exciting results, and we are looking to explore this field further."
Congratulations to Eleni Georgiou and Jacopo Lavazza on their successful placements.
The CoSEM CDT would like to extend its sincere thanks to Monash University and Deakin University, including Professor Neil Cameron, Associate Professor Matthieu Gresil, for their support and expertise throughout the students’ placements.