What was your job in Black Sea MAP?

I had two jobs in Black Sea MAP. I was the education assistant for the A-level STEM Scholar programme and I also worked with the photogrammetry team to 3D print the final shipwreck models.

What did your role involve?

For my work in 3D printing I had to reformat and clean up the files made by the photogrammetry team and decide how best to print the shipwreck. The part of my job that took the most time was to finish the physical model, sanding, assembling the prints (they were often printed in two parts), and finally hand painting the models. I was also responsible for the repair of the printers.

What is your favourite part of your job?

My favourite part of my job was handing the finished model over to the scientists! It was wonderful to watch them hold and talk about what they could see thanks to the model.

Which skills do you use in your job?

My job requires a unique mix of hands on repair work and artistic skills. I not only have to fix the printers when something goes wrong with them, but I also have to do fine detail painting of the models. I have to be very patient and meticulous in my work.

People skills are also very important as I have to deal with virtually everyone involved in the project, from the ship’s captain and lead scientist to the public relations team and STEM Scholars.

What was a highlight for you of Black Sea MAP?

The highlight for me was being able to work with some of the most talented people in the world on a project. Every day was like being at science camp with my best friends.

Which subjects did you study at school?

I studied History, English, and Art.

What was your career route?

My first degree was an undergraduate degree in Photography. After that I worked for four years as a chef before deciding to go back to university and do a second undergraduate degree in Archaeology. I then did a post-graduate Master’s degree in Maritime Archaeology and continued on to do a PhD in Archaeology (which I am still working on).

Were there any specific influences or motivations that led your particular career path?

I have always loved history and “doing” things. I thought I wanted to study history until I realised that as an archaeologist I could actually go out and discover history in amazing places around the world!

What advice would you give your younger self?

Be patient! It took me years of eliminating jobs I didn’t like to find one I think is the best job in the world.