In this month’s newsletter, we would like to introduce PhD student, Ahlam Rayan Alharbi from the College of Science and Engineering.
Ahlam’s recently submitted thesis, “Exploring Structural Characteristics of Tethered Bilayer Lipid Membranes (tBLMs) and Carboxylic-Terminated Self-Assembled Monolayers (SAMs)” received outstanding results from the examiners.
We asked Ahlam to share what led her to a PhD and why it is important, the most enjoyable and hardest parts of a PhD journey and what the future holds.
What was your research about in 1-2 sentences?
My research focuses on investigating the structural characteristics of tethered bilayer lipid membranes (tBLMs) and carboxylic-terminated self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) in both solid and liquid environments. These films exhibit properties such as selective permeability, molecular recognition, and electrical insulation, making them valuable for various applications in science and technology, including biosensing and drug delivery systems.
Tell us about yourself
After completing my bachelor’s degree in physics in Saudi Arabia with a high GPA, I was awarded a King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) grant, which allowed me to study English language in Canada. I then moved to Australia to pursue a master’s degree in Nanotechnology at Flinders University, graduating in 2017. In 2020, I received the Flinders University Research Scholarship (FURS) to continue my studies at Flinders University, where I began my PhD in Physics.
What led you to undertake a PhD? What inspired or motivated you?
During my Master’s studies, which marked my first experience with research, I quickly became fascinated by the journey of scientific inquiry. I found it incredibly rewarding to design experiments, analyze data, and learn how scientists use various methods to interpret their findings and draw meaningful conclusions. This experience sparked my passion for research and motivated me to pursue a PhD, where I could further explore complex questions and contribute to advancing knowledge in my field.
What was been one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey?
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my PhD journey has been analyzing my results. I find this particularly rewarding because it often reveals unexpected findings that challenge my initial hypotheses. None of the results I obtained during my PhD were what I initially anticipated, which underscores the significance of conducting research. This element of surprise made the process both exciting and insightful.
What was been one of the hardest parts of the journey?
‘Starting’ was always the hardest part for me, whether it was drafting a chapter or setting up an experiment. The first step always felt challenging, but the key was to ‘just start.’
What advice would you give to those who are about to undertake a PhD?
The advice I would give to those about to start a PhD is to understand that during the first year, and possibly the second, you might often feel lost, and that’s completely normal. Embrace this period of ambiguity as part of the process.
Also, to stay on track, before leaving your office each day, take a moment to jot down your plan for the next day. This habit will help you stay organized and ensure steady progress toward your ultimate goals. Also, remember that a PhD journey is filled with challenges, so it’s essential to be resilient. Lastly, always keep in mind that “success is all about patience and persistence”.
How has your PhD influenced your future career? Where do you see your career heading in the future?
My PhD has helped shape my future career by developing a variety of skills that are essential in any professional environment. Through my research, I gained the ability to analyze complex data and communicate my findings effectively, both in writing and presentations. I also strengthened my capacity to work both independently and collaboratively, managing projects and contributing as part of a team.
The challenges I encountered during my PhD taught me how to solve problems creatively and think critically under pressure. Additionally, I learned to manage my time efficiently and organize tasks to meet multiple deadlines. These experiences have prepared me to pursue a career in an academic or research institution, where I can apply these skills and continue to grow professionally.
Have you published anything?
Yes, I have published two articles as the first author and have submitted two additional manuscripts.
- Ahlam R. M. Alharbi, et al. (2024). Probing the Structure and Orientation of Carboxylic Acid-Terminated Self-Assembled Monolayers. Langmuir. Online:
https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c01488
- Ahlam R. M. Alharbi, et al. (2024). Determining the Stopping Power of Low Kinetic Energy Ne+ Projectiles in Self-Assembled Monolayers. Chemical Physics. Online:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemphys.2024.112425
What have you been doing since you completed?
After submitting my thesis, I was appointed as the Electron and Ion Scattering Spectroscopy Facility Manager at Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis (FMMA). In this role, I manage the operation and maintenance of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) instruments, including Neutral Impact Collision Ion Scattering Spectroscopy (NICISS), Metastable Induced Electron Spectroscopy (MIES), Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy (UPS), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). I provide training and technical advice to users, assist with data analysis, and conduct measurements for both internal and external users. Additionally, I am involved in strategic planning to continue developing the facilities to best meet the needs of the research community.