Lancaster University

Packing Optimisation Web Tool

Intern: Davina Olasoju
Degree course: BSc Computer Science
LinkedIn

I am a final year student at Lancaster University. I chose this area of study as I am passionate about coming up with sleek and creative solutions to complex problems. When I am not in a computer lab, I can be found on the running track, knitting at home, or playing the bass guitar.

Why did you apply for this internship?

I applied for this position as I was keen to get more hands-on experience with web programming in a way that would allow me to make a real impact on people.

What do you hope to gain in completing this project?

I hope to enhance my programming and web design skills, as well as an enhanced understanding of what it means to problem solve as part of a team.

Understanding the Value, Practice, and Computational Demand of Digital Research Infrastructure at Lancaster University

Intern: Elliot Groombridge
Degree course: Spanish Studies and Computing BSc Hons
LinkedIn

After completing my BSc in Spanish Studies and Computing at Lancaster University, I have continued research in the field of Computer Science and Sustainability. At Lancaster, there is a strong emphasis on interdisciplinarity and also on addressing the climate crisis, which has been a major source of inspiration for me.

What I loved most about my degree was how varied it was. I could be working on an app at midday, discussing the ethics of AI an hour later, and then analysing a Spanish film in the afternoon! This mix of perspectives across different disciplines really suited me and helped me appreciate the value of approaching problems from multiple points of view.

Outside my studies, I enjoy music and playing the guitar, football, bouldering, spending time in nature, and exploring new places and languages.

Why did you apply for this internship?

I am interested in how the growing use and increasing power of computing translate into resource demand, and how the sectors that rely on it are evolving. My previous research explored this in relation to data centres, and so the opportunity to research Digital Research Infrastructure at Lancaster University, including its High-End Computing cluster, felt like the perfect natural progression. It allows me to engage with real-world advanced computing infrastructure and explore how it can support research in a sustainable and impactful way.

What do you hope to gain in completing this project?

I hope to gain a clearer understanding of Digital Research Infrastructure and how it can further support research in the future. The internship is a great opportunity to develop research skills, including survey and interview design, scientific writing, and data analysis.