Justin heard about the three year KTP Associate position with Rolls-Royce Controls and Data Services from an academic colleague. The position was his first role after completing his Masters Degree. At the point of writing Justin is still in his Associate position - the KTP is due to be completed later in 2021.
How do you think being an Associate in a KTP will benefit your career?
“My KTP gives me a unique opportunity to experience both academia and industry. I am able to work closely with my academic supervisor, integrate cutting-edge research developed in the Department of Computer Science into Rolls-Royce’s products, and then present the results of the integration back to the research community. This has allowed me to not only develop academic and technical skills, but also has given me the opportunity to meet other world leading experts and present at international conferences. I’ve also received dedicated training to ensure I have developed crucial project management skills as well as a generous budget for further personal development.”
What is the best thing about being involved in your KTP?
“The privilege to work with the world-class company Rolls-Royce and being a member of the Automated Software Engineering group in the Department of Computer Science. I can’t think of any other job that gives you the opportunity to work so closely with both organisations.”
What would you say to someone considering applying for a KTP Position?
"If you are interested in integrating cutting-edge research into industry, this is the job for you! A KTP gives a unique bi-directional flow of knowledge between academia to industry and you are at the centre. You have freedom to shape the direction of your career after completing the KTP towards industry or academia depending on what you enjoyed the most, making it an ideal graduate opportunity."
Do you feel supported in your KTP role?
"Very much so. I hold regular meetings involving both my colleagues at Rolls-Royce and the University where we discuss any issues or challenges associated with the project. We also regularly review my personal development plan to check that I have all the necessary training and resources for completing my project, but also meeting my career goals after the KTP."
KTP Team Contact details:
Dr Rukmal Abeysekera
Knowledge Transfer Manager
Research, Innovation and Knowledge Exchange
Ron Cooke Hub
Tel: +44 (0) 1904 32 1124
rukmal.abeysekera@york.ac.uk