Dr. Matar Helal Alzhami

Position held at THINKlab
PhD researcher  

Time at THINKlab
20/5/2012 to 20/3/2016

My Experience at THINKlab

During my work experience at THINKlab, I was fortunate enough to have experienced firsthand and learned, many different sides of what goes into a research, the general process of how research is initially planned, developed and completed; as well as how much work and detail goes into every stage. Another valuable lesson I have learned during these 4 years, were the many different types of work an manager  has to perform, which in turn, have provided me with more insight into the different types of roles and responsibilities that I could perform, as a disaster manager.

Overall, my work experience at THINKlab was positive. I was very happy with the amount of things that I have learned and experienced in the 4 years of being a PhD researcher  with the THINKlab. I believe that THINKlab should keep this aspect of the environment as it does provide students with the experience needed in order to find a job later on (even if the experience is over a short amount of time). Also, it can be very beneficial as it could lead to a more permanent position, which is what happened with me. I ended up learning a lot more than I thought I would be able to in the time span, and my hard work paid off as they offered me a job at the end of it. I am so happy, and proud that I have completed my PhD research, and I can now graduate and call myself a Dr. Matar expertise in risk assessment in disaster management and applied advanced technology.

How has THINKlab supported/assisted your career and/or academic progression?

This position statement is a reflective account of my knowledge, skills and qualities acquired from THINKlab that has contributed to my personal and professional development. I would like my learning derived from THINKlab to be counted for academic credit towards my degree.

I was fortunate to have been educated in good institutions such as THINKlab  which fostered a healthy, competitive and challenging learning environment and offered a good balance of academic and extra-curricular opportunities. Involvement in such activities helped mould me as a motivated and resourceful individual who flourishes in situations where imagination and initiative are called for.

Publications

• The role of technology in building the resilience of cities 2013
• Chapter 9, Supporting Risk Assessment in Building Resilient Cities 2016

My Future

After graduation, I’m planning to serve my country in many areas such in teaching at universities and institutes. My ambition is also to be an active member in my country and in countries of the word to alleviate the suffering of those affected by disasters.