Sunchi’s Biography

Sunchi’s academic journey started at the University of Birmingham (UOB) where she studied BSc Nuclear Science and Materials. She decided to stay in the nuclear field, undertaking an MSc in Physics and Technology of Nuclear Reactors, for which she attained a Distinction. During her studies, she was heavily involved in scientific and educational outreach, where she served as social secretary and vice president of the UOB Nuclear Society; a society representing all nuclear courses at the university. 

After graduating, Sunchi entered a 2-year graduate scheme at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) as a Graduate Development Engineer. Upon completion, she was offered a role as a full-time Development Engineer where she currently resides. This role suited Sunchi due to its multidisciplinary nature, owing to the academic breadth of her previously attained degrees. She is responsible for the development of novel technologies for Fusion Energy, meaning that much of her work exists on the cutting edge of Fusion technology and design. Over her 2.5 years at UKAEA, she has worked on several projects, including:

• Development of dissimilar metal joining techniques.
• Development of surface treatments for super dark and high thermal efficiency metallic surfaces.
• Design of a satellite maintenance robotic arm.
• Neutron shielding design for the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production: the UK-owned programme to demonstrate net energy production from Fusion (STEP).
• Technology transfer from Fusion to other industries, such as Aerospace and Medical.

During her time at UKAEA, Sunchi’s work in outreach and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) continues. She has taken part in multiple communications and EDI initiatives on behalf of the UKAEA, with institutions such as The Royal Society, Tech London Advocates, Women in Nuclear, PreparationTech, ITV News, Sky, and more. Her continued dedication to this cause earned her the UKAEA Outreach Award, giving official recognition for her commitment to scientific outreach.

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