I studied Mathematics in Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
How did you choose the college courses you applied for?
Mostly based on my preferences. I believe there is no point in studying something you don’t like.
What is your fondest memory of college days?
Being with friends 24/7! Attending classes together, hanging out afterwards, studying together. Also taking part in the Erasmus exchange programme, which was an incredible experience where I got to travel overseas.
The present
How would your parents describe what you do?
Self-correcting 3D printing. Diagnosing and correcting problems in the manufacturing process.
How would your friends describe what you do?
Improving the way a 3D printer functions so that a lot of the tasks can be performed automatically.
What do you actually do?
I investigate the use of Artificial Intelligence and Control Theory to improve the decision-making aspects of additive manufacturing (3D printing). I am attempting to come up with ways for a 3D printer to make decisions on its own to correct flaws - or stop the print if it is beyond correction.
Why or how did you choose your current role?
Mathematics and Control Theory are my passion and I have always wanted to explore real-life applications of them. 3D printing is the future of manufacturing. Being able to use my skills to contribute to breakthroughs in this field is exciting.
Tell me something cool about being a researcher.
You get a front row seat and get to contribute to the advancement of science. You get to travel, communicate, share ideas and meet new people with similar interests.
The future
What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?
Still be conducting research and teaching the new generation of scientists.
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 would still love to be a mathematician and a researcher. I can’t think of anything I would rather do. Perhaps I would like to work on robotics too, since by that time the field will be even bigger.