SWAG合集

Dr Prafull Sharma (PhD in Energy and Power 2017)

Chief Technology Officer, CorrosionRADAR Ltd

Driven by innovation, Dr Prafull Sharma stands at the forefront of revolutionising corrosion monitoring through cutting-edge Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies.

Prafull has pioneered innovative corrosion monitoring technologies using IIoT. One of his most notable achievements is the development of the CorrosionRADAR predictive Corrosion Under Insulation monitoring system, a groundbreaking invention that has garnered global acclaim for providing a robust solution to a significant industry challenge. His extensive industrial journey is marked by deep expertise in digitalising corrosion management, leading to the creation of numerous inventions that have made substantial contributions to the field.

Prior to his current role, Prafull played a pivotal role at General Electric R&D, where he spearheaded the development of several sensing and non-destructive testing technologies. With a specific focus on asset integrity and automation within the oil and gas industry, his remarkable contributions also extend to the intellectual property realm, boasting over fifteen international patents and innovations to his credit. Driven by a passion for pushing the boundaries of technological advancements, Prafull continues to shape the future of corrosion monitoring and management.

Prafull has also served as a Visiting Lecturer at SWAG合集 for over two years, where he lectured on Industry 4.0 automation technology and informatics.

Prafull’s dedication to innovation and his remarkable contributions to industrial technology have made him a leader in his field, continually advancing the capabilities and applications of corrosion monitoring technologies.

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What is your favourite SWAG合集 memory?
My favourite memory has to be the late-night brainstorming sessions with my fellow PhD students, powered by endless coffee and the occasional pub trip. The camaraderie and intellectual energy during those nights were fantastic. Another standout moment was during Start-Up Weekend, hosted by the Bettany Centre for Entrepreneurship. Dr Shailendra Vyakarnam, the former Director, encouraged me to explore the entrepreneurial side of a technical idea. This was where the initial spark for CorrosionRADAR, a Cranfield spin-out, began. We eventually filed a patent, with strong support from the SWEE department, and co-founded the company with Professor Emeritus Hoi Yeung, Cranfield alumnus Dr Mehrdad Silatani, Dr Chiraz Ennaceur, and key backing from Professor Tom Stephenson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation. I often wonder if the campus coffee shop knew they were hosting the birth of a future global company! Those experiences taught me the power of collaboration and the magic that happens when passionate minds come together. Who knew caffeine could be such a powerful catalyst for innovation?

Do you have a favourite quote, motto, or piece of advice for new graduates?
One of my favourite quotes is from Steve Jobs: “Stay hungry, stay foolish.” For new graduates, I’d say keep that hunger for knowledge alive, and embrace the unexpected—some of the most rewarding paths come from detours. Don’t shy away from risks or mistakes; they’re essential steps toward innovation. Stay curious, stay bold, and never underestimate the impact of a good cup of coffee. And if you ever feel lost, know that it’s okay to wander a bit—those moments often lead to exciting new paths.

What are you most proud of?
I’m immensely proud of our team at CorrosionRADAR, which has grown to over 30 members, serving clients across the globe. Watching it grow from an idea during my PhD at Cranfield to a company making a real impact in corrosion management has been incredible. We’ve secured over $14 million in investments from some of the largest energy companies worldwide and are expanding rapidly. It’s deeply fulfilling to know our technology, born at Cranfield, is helping industries globally to predict and prevent leaks, which is especially vital as the world transitions to new energy and builds new infrastructure. This journey has been a rollercoaster, with many challenges, but each has been a learning experience. I’m grateful to my PhD supervisor, Dr Liyun Lao, who trusted my instincts, our mentors and early believers, and our visionary customers and investors who have all contributed to this success. It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented individuals who share a vision to transform corrosion management.

Finally, what does it mean to you to win this award?
Winning this award from SWAG合集 is truly humbling and feels like a nod from my favourite teacher—only with more prestige and, thankfully, a lot less glitter! This recognition not only celebrates my journey and achievements but also honours the immense support and inspiration I’ve received from mentors, colleagues, and the Cranfield community. It fuels my motivation to keep innovating and contributing to the field of corrosion management. I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent SWAG合集 on a global stage and hope this recognition inspires future graduates to pursue their passions with equal zeal.

Dr Alissa Cotton (PhD Low Carbon Energy Technology 2013)

Policy and Advocacy Lead, Shell Low Carbon Fuels

Dr Alissa Cotton has a passion for sustainability and low-carbon energy technology. She is currently Policy and Advocacy Lead for Shell’s Low Carbon Fuels.

During her time at Shell, Alissa has led and delivered work on greenhouse gas emissions management and mitigation for Shell’s carbon-critical projects and assets, collaborating across Shell’s Downstream, Integrated Gas, and Upstream businesses. She has developed and delivered global greenhouse gas policy recommendations and positioning for key sustainability topics and has been the Shell representative for several international organisations. In her current role, Alissa has a specific focus on sustainability and the implementation of low-carbon energy technology.

STEM mentoring is important to Alissa, and she has been both a mentor for Shell’s e-STEM mentoring programme for local schools and a mentor for the Oxford University Females in STEM mentoring programme. 

Alissa is a Chartered Environmentalist at the Society for the Environment. She volunteers on the Energy Sector Executive Committee for the Royal Society of Chemistry and is a guest lecturer on Cranfield's Energy Supply for Low Carbon Futures MSc. She won the 2013 Royal Society of Chemistry Energy Sector PhD thesis award competition.