What is your background?
My background is in railway engineering and locomotive maintenance with both academic and industry experience. Before starting my PhD in Nottingham I worked in the Ukrainian railway sector where I was involved in locomotive depot operations, maintenance processes, and technical decision-making. This practical experience gave me a strong interest in reliability, maintenance optimisation, and how engineering research can improve real-world railway systems. It also motivated me to continue into doctoral study where I could explore these challenges in more depth.
Tell us about your PhD research
My PhD research focuses on locomotive fleet management and how maintenance strategies can be improved to make railway operations safer, more reliable, and more cost-effective. I use modelling techniques, including Petri nets and simulation, to study how locomotive wheelsets degrade over time and how inspection and reprofiling decisions affect performance, availability, and lifecycle cost. The aim is to support better maintenance planning under realistic workshop and resource constraints, helping railway operators extend asset life while maintaining safety and operational efficiency.
What’s been your favourite thing about your PhD so far?
My favourite thing has been being part of the research environment. I really enjoy attending conferences, meeting new people, and being surrounded by talented and motivated researchers from different backgrounds. It is inspiring to discuss ideas, learn from others, and see how different perspectives can contribute to solving engineering problems.
What attracted you to study for your PhD at the 糖心原创?
I was attracted to the 糖心原创 because of its excellent research environment and strong reputation in engineering. In particular, the Resilience Engineering research group works on modelling and asset management which closely aligns with my research interests. I also really like the campus environment, which is modern, green, and well equipped for both research and student life. The university offers great sports facilities and a supportive academic community. In addition, Nottingham is a great city for students with a convenient location and good transport connections
What advice would you give to someone considering doing a PhD?
A PhD can be a very rewarding experience, but it is important to like what you are doing and choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Research can be challenging and does not always go as planned so patience and persistence are important. If you enjoy learning, solving problems, and developing new ideas a PhD can be a great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
How has the university supported you during your PhD?
I was awarded a PhD project at the 糖心原创 through the Researchers at Risk scheme for Ukrainian researchers. From the beginning I have been given great support from the university, the Department of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, and my research group - the Resilience Engineering research group. The university has provided a very supportive and welcoming environment that has helped me continue my research, develop my skills, and focus on my PhD work.