Paula Nkulikiyinka

Led preparation of project proposals including techno-economic assessments, evaluation of project team capabilities, and development of detailed schedules to win RFQs/RFPs. Reviewed PFDs and P&IDs, recommended alternative solutions, and oversaw completion and commissioning strategies to ensure safe, timely delivery.

Mapped hydrogen and CCUS processes for pumping, compression and filtration and translated process engineering knowledge into actionable product and standards insights. Served as subject matter expert and built organisational capability through coaching and training.

Performed process design optimisation for BECCS projects, producing pre-FEED technical feasibility studies and technical notes using Aspen HYSYS and PFD/P&ID development. Appraised CO2 transport and storage options and acted as technical lead across projects in Australia, North America and Europe.

Researched, wrote and compiled technical and market reports on energy and chemicals, using proprietary analytical software and Excel to identify key market, technology and commercial trends. Delivered written insights to support subscriptions and reports offerings.

Provided technical support for catalyst testing across Europe and other sites, led installation and commissioning of a new laboratory with over £2M CAPEX, and participated in HAZOP and FMEA to drive continuous improvement. Coached laboratory staff and supported new product introduction testing.

Developed operational philosophies, P&IDs and control architectures for combustion EPC projects and produced AutoCAD drawings to support design-through-commissioning activities. Gained end-to-end experience in combustion engineering and control system optimisation.

Activities and societies: Research and publications on sorbent-enhanced steam methane reforming, scale-up of blue hydrogen, techno-economic analysis, and machine-learning modelling.

Research doctorate on optimization of low-carbon hydrogen production via sorbent-enhanced steam methane reforming; passed with minor corrections in November 2023.

Master of Science in Advanced Chemical Engineering with research on the influence of hydrogen on carbon monoxide reactivity.

Grade: First Class Honours

Activities and societies: Includes professional placement year.

First-class Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering with a professional placement year.