-- Interview with Stephanie Segura --
S: Tell us a bit about your background!
S: I am from Peru. It is well known for Machupicchu, the Inca city. I have a bachelor's degree in Computer Systems Engineer, and after having worked 8 years in some industries as an information security specialist, I pursued to study an MBA. I got a scholarship from the University of Sheffield and studied there in 2018. Then, I went back to Peru to continue working as an Information security manager. After having the amazing experience to study in the UK, I started thinking to do a PhD in information science.
S: How did you find out about DoSSIER and what made you decide to apply?
S: I found it through an email, and I searched on the website. I was looking for PhD in information science because of my working experiences. Also, I wanted a change from working in the Industries to the Academic sector. Thus, I found very exciting to do a PhD in the school that I did my MBA. It is amazing to coming back.
S: How long are you already working on the project?
S: I have been working on project 10 at the University of Sheffield since January 2021, so now I am on it for six months.
S: What are your initial thoughts on DoSSIER and your experience?
S: I found very fascinating, interesting and challenging. The working environment is very friendly, and everyone is very kind to help. The trainings and meeting are very well organized and well detailed. I am happy to work on Dossier project.
S: What project are you currently working on?
S: I am working at Project 10, Tasks in the Enterprise. It focus is to find the definition of tasks across different domains. This will allow finding patterns from the development of tasks where information is needed and used in the workplace.
S: Tell us about your team environment. What do you enjoy about collaborating with your small team and the larger lab?
S: I am working from home, and I have 3 PHD colleagues at the University of Sheffield. Sometimes we met together to have chat and share our experience.
S: What excites you the most about the field of IR and HCI?
S: As my background is in information security, I do care most how data and information are being use in applications. Thus, I have always been fascinated how IR works to extract accurate and reliable information to users. In my current project, I focus more the context of tasks and how this may affect how people use IR and HCI.
S: Walk us through a day in the life of a DoSSIER PhD student.
S: Well, my day usually starts early in the morning with my cup of coffee. During the week I organize my days, few days at home and others at the Doctoral Centre or the library. My typical days is full of readings, workshops and I do some writing. At lunch time, sometimes I cook and eat at home, or I go out to have a meal. Also, I exercise quite often at home, do some yoga and when I have the opportunity I like to explore the city.
S: Thanks for the interview!