DSII’s next doctoral graduate, Marea de Koning, 33, sets a great example of how building networks can lead to success in both science and professional development.
De Koning has studied safety concepts for collaborative highly automated mobile work machines, sketching out an idea of what safety is, how it can be achieved, and what the limitations are.
She has done her doctoral dissertation in collaboration with Epec and Tampere University. Although the field was unfamiliar to de Koning at first, with the support of her partners, she quickly gained the knowledge and insight needed to understand it.
“I think it was an interesting journey for all of us”, de Koning sums up referring to the past years of her DSII studies.
De Koning describes machine safety with the words reliability and knowing what to expect. Adding automation to the mix creates new challenges that de Koning has helped to identify in her research. A highly automated machine must be able to assess risks and avoid damage without human presence to press the stop button.
“Science is about innovation and finding a path forward”, de Koning ponders.
A highlight of de Koning’s doctoral studies has been attending different conferences and finding a community of like-minded professionals through them. It helps to find an international network of people who can help each other develop as professionals.
“You can find the right people along the way.”
De Koning has found her voice in the academic field and is not afraid to state her opinions. She also helps others to get their voices heard.
“I am present, I am there, and I am very straight forward and straight to the point”, de Koning describes herself.
DSII studies
“DSII helps you gain contacts and makes you more relevant in the industry.” De Koning exclaims.
De Koning explains that DSII offers its doctoral researchers a clear path to becoming a doctor and a place to experiment with science together with others. She sees the value in how DSII helps move industry and academia forward together. DSII’s meetings have helped de Koning connect to her colleagues.
“It’s a good anchor point. It’s a great place to share stories and experiences.”
What’s next?
Now as de Koning is finishing her journey at DSII, she has been offered a job as a functional safety expert through the networks she created during her years as a doctoral researcher. It’s a good example of what can come out of networking with industry professionals.
She’s excited for the future and reminds others to enjoy the journey of doctoral studies while they are on it.
Text: Veera Rautio
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