Dr Susan Scholes, is a researcher working on the Supergen Energy Networks Hub at Newcastle University, in the field of whole systems energy research.

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) held a photography competition as part of the Engineering Net Zero Week’s which occured in June earlier this year. 

The winners were announced during the evening reception of the ENZ showcase at the Advanced Research Centre at the University of Glasgow. Dr Susan Scholes submitted her photograph and won the 'Weird and Wonderful' category. 

We asked Susan about her prize and inspiration behind the picture. 

What was the thought behind your design?

I had initially heard about the competition through an email sent by Sara.  I have an interest in photography and I wondered if I could think of anything I could take a photograph of that would be exciting enough for a competition entry.  Whilst eating tea together as a family I suddenly had inspiration – Lego!  I asked my son and husband if they would help and they enthusiastically agreed (well most of the enthusiasm was from my son, and my son did most of the build!).  They then started to build!  I thought it was a perfect fit for the ‘Weird and Wonderful’ category.

How did you feel about winning?

When I received the e-mail from EPSRC I was impressed that my photograph had won a prize, I then read further and discovered I had won first prize in the ‘Weird and Wonderful’ category.  I was truly elated, I couldn’t believe it!  My son was at school so I told him as soon as he walked through the door.  It was a fantastic family effort and it still makes me smile!

Credit: Dr Susan Scholes, Newcastle University