Profiles

Ella-Mae Molloy attended her Headstart at Loughborough University in 1999 while studying A-Levels in mathematics, further mathematics, physics, systems & control technology and general studies at Baines School in Poulton-Le-Fylde, Lancashire.

Headstart proved to be crucial, helping with important career decisions and her direction for future study. As often the case with numerate students, she had considered a career in accountancy: however, Headstart provided so much information about science and engineering, she enrolled on a Systems Engineering course at Loughborough University during the following year.

Systems Engineering has given Ella-Mae a sound training in many diverse fields of engineering, including electrical and electronics, mechanical systems, mathematics, computing and software, system dynamics and control, and human factors.

Now in her final year at Loughborough, preparing for a PhD in Systems Engineering, Ella-Mae will focus on combining human factors and mathematics, looking at the mathematics of team behaviour with potential applications to accidents, disaster investigation and forensic engineering - as close to real life CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) as you can get! Last summer, a work placement with the Civil Air Accident Investigation Branch (part of the Dept of Transport) fuelled her enthusiasm and provided useful work experience.

She has worked on some fascinating projects during her degree course - including human factors from a systems engineering viewpoint, using sophisticated computer modelling techniques to produce accurate simulations.

Ella-Mae has been selected by NOISE (New Outlooks in Science and Engineering) as one of ten role models raising the profile of science and engineering, encouraging young people to consider the wide range of careers. All the role models are involved in groundbreaking study and research, passionate about the impact their area of science and engineering has on everyday life.

In addition to being a keen supporter of Headstart, she is a Science and Engineering Ambassador for SETNET, working with young people in local schools.

"I want to dispel the stereotypes, as many people still seem to have a fixed view about women and engineers in general. As one of only 5 girls on my degree course, I have to show others that you can achieve whatever you want to achieve."

Ella-Mae has a wide range of hobbies and nterests, playing mixed hockey, swimming and reading, as well as being a Lord of the Rings fanatic!