Liam Firth (PhD in Computing)

PhD Computing at Buckingham: First year experience

Tell us who you are and what do you do?

My name is Liam Firth, and as the Head of Digital Solutions at Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems, I play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s technological landscape. My responsibilities include innovating digital strategies, overseeing software development, and enhancing operational efficiency.

I graduated from The University of Buckingham in 2021 with a master’s degree in Lean Enterprise and was honoured with the Dame Barbara Shenfield Award for Excellence. In 2023, I embarked on a part-time PhD journey to further develop my knowledge and experiences in the field of computing and Artificial Intelligence.

What is your research focus?

My research focuses on railway operations within the UK network, specifically examining how infrastructure issues and journey delays affect schedules, reliability, and overall capacity. By analysing historical performance data, journey schedules, and live train position information from Network Rail and National Rail, I utilise advanced Machine Learning techniques to predict potential delays, identify capacity bottlenecks, and assess equipment reliability issues.

A key component of my research involves using live network data to gain insights into maintenance schedules and the reliability of rail braking equipment. By integrating real-time data on train positions and operational status, I aim to develop predictive models that can identify potential maintenance needs and pre-emptively address issues related to braking systems. This proactive approach helps ensure the safety and efficiency of the rail network.

What inspired you to pursue this research topic?

My inspiration for this research stems from an aspiration to provide Knorr-Bremse with live network status information to gain a deeper understanding of vehicle and driver behaviour, as well as network capacity. By understanding external factors and operational data, it allows us to identify opportunities for improvement where we can enhance our operations and better serve our customers.

How would you summarise your first year of PhD studies in terms of challenges?

Summarising my first year of PhD studies, I’d say it was a mix of exciting progress and a few tough challenges. Balancing part-time studies with my career and family life was certainly a juggling act. It took a lot of time management and figuring out what to prioritise.

Getting up to speed with advanced research methods, current literature and Machine Learning techniques was another big hurdle. There was a lot of self-learning involved, and I had to stay flexible as I tackled new concepts and technologies.

I also faced the challenge of pulling together different data sources — like historical performance data, live train positions, and maintenance schedules. Making sure this data was accurate and useful for predictive modelling was demanding.

Despite these challenges, I’ve learned a lot and set a solid foundation for the rest of my PhD journey.

What are your academic and personal accomplishments during the first year of studies?

During the first year of my PhD studies, I achieved several academic and personal accomplishments:

Research Progress: I successfully formulated the research framework and began collecting and analysing data from various sources, including Network Rail and National Rail.
Skill Development: I gained experience in advanced Machine Learning techniques and data integration methods, which are critical for my predictive modelling research.
Collaboration: I established collaborative relationships with other postgraduate research students and academic peers, which have supported my research and opened new opportunities for future projects.
Professional Growth: My research has directly contributed to my career and professional development, enhancing my expertise and leadership skills in researching new approaches and technologies to add value within industry.

How has the support from your advisors and peers contributed to your academic environments and your progress so far?

The support from my supervisors and peers has been crucial to my academic progress and overall experience so far. My supervisors have provided essential guidance, feedback, and access to resources, helping to shape and refine my research.

Meanwhile, my peers have fostered a collaborative and supportive learning environment with exciting opportunities to collaborate on different projects. Together, their combined contributions have significantly enhanced my research capabilities and made my PhD journey more productive and enjoyable.

How have you managed to balance coursework, research, social and personal life during your first year?

Balancing my research, work responsibilities, family life and personal commitments during my first year has required careful planning and prioritisation. I’ve established a structured schedule that allocates specific time blocks for each aspect of my life.

Additionally, I’ve learned to be efficient with my time by utilising productivity techniques such as time-blocking and setting realistic goals. Maintaining open communication with my supervisors and peers has also helped me manage expectations and stay on track with my academic responsibilities.

Furthermore, I’ve made a conscious effort to make time for golf and other social activities, recognising the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Are there any time-management strategies or lessons learned that you would like to share with fellow PhD students?

Absolutely, here are some time-management strategies and lessons that I’ve found particularly helpful during my PhD journey:

Prioritise tasks: Identify the most important tasks each day and focus on completing them first. This ensures that you make progress on your key objectives even if unexpected challenges emerge later in the day.
Use time-blocking: Allocate specific time slots for different activities, such as family time, research, work, and personal commitments. Stick to these time blocks as much as possible to maintain a structured schedule.
Break tasks into smaller steps: Large projects can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes it easier to stay focused and track progress.
Set realistic goals: Be realistic about what you can accomplish within a given timeframe. Set achievable goals that challenge you and celebrate the small wins.
Limit distractions: Minimise distractions by creating a conducive work environment, turning off notifications, and setting boundaries with colleagues and family members.
Be flexible: Accept that plans and the direction of the research may need to change and be willing to adapt to different circumstances. Flexibility is key to effectively managing the dynamic nature of PhD research.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey of carrying out the research and learning around your chosen research areas.

What’s life like in Buckingham town?

While the Buckingham town experience might be different for distant students like me, the University fosters a close-knit community. Commuting allows you to build a strong network on campus while maintaining connections back home and I can certainly highlight the benefits of commuting to The University of Buckingham and why it’s worth the trip.

The university offers a range of excellent facilities and resources that enhance the academic experience and make the commute worthwhile. The campus provides state-of-the-art research facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and collaborative workspaces, which are essential for PhD students like me to conduct our research effectively.

Additionally, the university promotes a supportive and lively academic community, with opportunities for networking and collaboration. Despite living in a small village outside of Bath, I find the commute to Buckingham manageable and even rewarding, thanks to the university’s outstanding facilities.

What are the ‘must do’s that you recommend for students?

Here are some of my “must do’s” that I recommend for other students:

Attend academic and professional development events: Attend seminars, workshops, conferences, and networking events relevant to your field of study. These events offer opportunities to learn from experts, stay updated on the latest research trends, and connect with professionals in your industry.
Seek out mentorship: Identify mentors, whether they are faculty members, industry professionals, or other students, who can provide direction, guidance, support, and advice as you navigate your academic and career path.
Utilise university resources: Take advantage of the various resources and services offered by the university, such as libraries, laboratories and career services. These resources can provide valuable assistance and support throughout your academic journey.
Balance work and play: While it’s important to prioritise your academic and professional goals, don’t forget to make time for leisure activities and relaxation. Balancing work and play are essential for maintaining your overall well-being and preventing burnout.
Challenge yourself: Step out of your comfort zone and take on new challenges and opportunities for growth. Whether it’s pursuing research projects, participating in competitions, diving into a new research area, pushing yourself beyond your limits can lead to personal and academic growth.