Philippa Usher

Graduated with an interdisciplinary MSc/PhD in the Doctoral Training Centre for Low Carbon Technologies

Thesis: Integration of Microalgae into the Brazilian Biodiesel Industry

How can a new technology be incorporated into an existing industry? By taking a holistic view of the biodiesel industry in Brazil, Dr Pip Usher aimed to find out what the options for a more environmentally friendly feedstock were, the technical feasibility of the fuel, and what the challenges would be to introduce these to the existing system. Her research started in 2011, and took a holistic view of the integration of heterotrophic microalgae into the Brazilian biodiesel sector. Through experimental work including cultivating algae and micro-scale production and testing of biodiesel, modelling of energy balances and partnerships with Brazilian universities her project pulled together different strands that must be considered when developing a new technology.

Following completion of Pip’s thesis, in September 2014 she joined Rolls Royce as a Project Manager, and have since been working within the aerospace division. The choice to move into the industrial sector was influenced by her research project which, as part of the whole systems analysis, identified the link that is required between technology development and full scale implementation. Pip’s current project identifies and proves how to move from experimental proof of concept through to manufacturing capability. Skills she developed as a researcher help her to perform her role such as giving a critical eye to detail, planning work and monitoring to keep it on schedule, and building relationships with colleagues in and outside of university.