Glasgow College, UESTC

As the Glasgow College team continues to grow, we are happy to provide staff both 'old' and 'new' with a chance to introduce themselves to readers. This time we turn the spotlight on Dr Amir Parnianifard, who joined our partnership in early 2022 as a Lecturer, based primarily on our Chengdu campus.

Which subjects do you teach?

• Engineering Project Management and Finance
• Real-Time Computing and Computer Architecture
• Electronic Devices
• Microelectronics

Which fields of research are you most interested in and why?

My research interests focus on "Computational Intelligence-Based Engineering Optimization and Uncertainty Quantification," as these fields enable the development of optimal solutions while also ensuring robustness in complex engineering design problems, considering reliability and uncertainty in real-world applications.

What is the most memorable project you have been involved in at Glasgow College UESTC or elsewhere and why?

Before officially joining Glasgow College, I collaborated with the University of Glasgow research team, including Professors Muhammad Imran and Qammar Abasi, on preparing a project proposal for submission to the Horizon Europe program in 2021. This initial interaction marked my first experience collaborating with esteemed researchers from UofG, and it was a memorable few months working together on the proposal, which involved over 10 universities from different countries globally.

Since joining Glasgow College, a particularly memorable project has been the development of course content, outlines, and ongoing training initiatives in collaboration with respected colleagues. Recently, we have expanded the project to incorporate soft skills development, aligning with the college's commitment to preparing students for practical industries after graduation and reducing the gap between academia and industry.

Can you tell us about a proud moment working at Glasgow College, UESTC?

A major source of pride for me at GC UESTC has been collaborating with colleagues from both the UofG and UESTC to develop and refine teaching content, integrating diverse perspectives and expertise to enhance our students' learning experience.

Working closely with my FYP students has also been rewarding. Memorable moments include several students securing prestigious scholarships for post-graduate positions at top-ranked universities globally, which underscores their dedication and hard work.

I am particularly proud of the enthusiastic engagement I see in my EPMF course, which covers topics in engineering management and essential soft skills such as project management, quality control, design for manufacturing, sustainability, and Six Sigma.

These achievements are a testament to the fulfilling experiences I've had at GC UESTC, alongside participating in non-academic activities with esteemed local colleagues in Chengdu, including various sports competitions and events.

What most impresses you about Glasgow College students?

I am most impressed by the students at Glasgow College, UESTC, for their politeness and respectfulness towards lecturers. Their eagerness to learn, coupled with their courteous behavior, creates a positive and engaging classroom environment that is a pleasure to teach in.

What or who inspired you to study engineering?

My decision to enter teaching was influenced by both my practical experience—spending over 12 years in industry and observing firsthand the gap between academic theory and practical industry needs—and a lifelong passion for interacting with and mentoring young students. This interest has roots in my childhood and family background, driving my commitment to transferring and sharing knowledge with the younger generation and students.

Tell us about your hobbies and interests outside of work:

Outside of work, I am passionate about staying active through sports and exercise activities. These activities help me maintain physical fitness and provide a valuable way to unwind and recharge. I also have a keen interest in movies and enjoy reading social news and articles to stay informed about current affairs. Additionally, spending quality time with my friends and family is important to me, as it allows us to share meaningful moments together.

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First published: 18 August 2024