"You have the opportunity to learn new things that not many people know about."
Axieh Bagasol is an I-Form researcher based at University College Dublin.
Growing up
Do you remember what you wanted to be (when you grew up) when you were 5 years old?
I wanted to be a nurse just like my mom.
Same question at age 15?
I was very much into healthy lifestyle, diet, etc so I wanted to be a nutritionist.
What were you like as a school student around age 15/16?
I would say an introvert. My routine was going to school and coming back home straight from school. I enjoyed reading e-books and watching television series.
College days
What did you study at college, and where?
I studied Medicinal Chemistry at Dublin Institute of Technology (now known as TUD).
How did you choose the college courses you applied for?
During 6th Year in secondary school, I really enjoyed Chemistry as a subject. I thought that I wanted this as a career path, hence I chose Medicinal Chemistry.
What is your fondest memory of college days?
I loved hanging out with my friends. We used to study together in the library and after, we’d have a nice dinner, which was very helpful to ease out any stress during college days.
The present
How would your parents describe what you do?
My parents know very little about my work. They only know that I do 3D printing for medical use.
How would your friends describe what you do?
My friends would describe it as working with the research industry for the advancement of medical devices.
What do you actually do?
In simple terms, my research involves the 3D printing of titanium alloys for use in biomedical applications. Currently, 3D printing is still a very complex technology. My research aims to fundamentally understand the process of 3D printing and how to improve this process for better efficiency in manufacturing.
Why or how did you choose your current role?
I chose to work in the advanced manufacturing sector because it’s growing exponentially. Industries are now leaning towards the use of advanced manufacturing for the production of high-end applications. I want to be a part of this growing sector and help develop this technology to its full potential.
Tell me something cool about being a researcher.
Being a researcher means you have the opportunity to learn new things that not many people know about, which is very special! We also attend conferences/gatherings and meet other researchers across the world. It’s an opportunity to expand your network.
The future
What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?
In 10 years, I would like to enjoy life in my 30s and travel the whole world!
If we could time travel to 2050 and you had to choose a job to do right now (real or imagined), what would it be?
I think by 2050, sustainability will be very important. As I am already working with 3D printing, which promotes sustainable manufacturing, I will still stay in this sector.