How did you get your start into digital infrastructure?
Originally, I was deeply involved in academia and research within mechanical engineering, specifically focusing on thermofluid engineering and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. After completing my PhD, I transitioned from academics, where I had lectured and conducted research, into the industry.
My first role in the data centre industry was with Katrick Technologies in Glasgow, a startup dedicated to developing green technologies including an innovative cooling solution for data centres. I joined the thermal engineering team as an analyst where I was responsible for carrying out thermal analysis, CFD simulations, developing thermal system tests and using results to inform system improvements. Overtime, I progressed from the analyst role to a Thermofluid and Analysis Engineer role where I took on more responsibilities in a passive cooling project. The project was pioneering a two-phase flow system which used low GWP refrigerants to efficiently convert liquid to gas at near-ambient conditions, optimizing heat extraction from data centres.
As a Thermofluid and Analysis Engineer, my responsibility involved not only simulations and theoretical modelling; but real, hands-on testing of the technology in a live data centre. We faced daily challenges in integrating our cutting-edge technology with conventional cooling systems, pushing the boundaries of what was technically feasible. Every day brought new problems to be solved, from adjusting system parameters to enhance efficiency and troubleshooting on-site at data centres.
The hands-on experience was useful as I got to apply rigorous scientific analysis into practical problems. It was a leap from the research-based work in academia to the dynamic, problem-solving environment of digital infrastructure, where innovative solutions are tested and implemented in real-time. The role set the foundation for my continuous development in the data centre industry, blending my background in thermofluid engineering with the pressing needs of modern data infrastructure.
If your application is successful, Harlow Council will transfer the grant by BACS. Bank details (account name, number and sort code) will need to be supplied with a summary of accounts.
Funding conditions: If your application is successful, your project must be delivered by 31 December 2026. You will have to return any grant funds if the project is not delivered or the organisation receiving the funding stops operating.
A contract agreement will need to be signed between your organisation and Harlow District Council before any funding is granted.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Grant recipients will be required to provide an end of project report to establish whether the project has met its aims and objectives, as well as to assess the overall impact on participants. Funding for the project is provided on the basis that the Project Evaluation form is returned within the agreed project timescale (no later than 31 January 2027).
Risks and Liabilities: In giving grants the ‘Harlow Council’ will require the supported project organisation or groups to accept all risks and liabilities associated with the activity being supported. This will be a condition of the grant. Copies of relevant documents may need to be provided if the application has been approved.
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