PhD Student & Lab Manager
EME 1212, EME 1240
olivia.margoto@ubc.ca
Biography
I started my studies in composite materials during my undergrad degree and loved it. I worked on projects regarding composite materials reinforced with natural fibres and their thermal and mechanical characterization. A partnership with IMT – Mines Albi (France) allowed me to work on carbon fibre recycling reinforcing composites and the formulation of hybrid composites. I’m also a Mitacs Globalink Research Intern Alumni working on Industry 4.0 concepts applied to Advanced Composite Materials Manufacturing at Composites Research Network (CRN) – Kelowna. During my Master’s degree, I participated in diverse project fields, such as techniques to preserve natural fibre, biodegradable gloves manufacturing, epoxy adhesives, material selection for boat hulls, nanomaterials and biocomposites. In my Master’s thesis, I performed an “Experimental investigation and multicriteria decision making into flax and carbon fibres reinforced biopolymers for outdoor structural applications”. Additionally, I completed an internship at the Université Grenoble Alpes (France) as part of a Mitacs Graduate Award.
Regarding my industrial experience, I am a part-time researcher at a Canadian start-up, Terrasol International Inc. Our team aims to design solar energy infrastructures for weather-ravaged areas worldwide. Previously, I worked in a multinational company, where I was responsible for business intelligence analysis, Lean Manufacturing process and simulation of electronic products. I have also worked in a bank as part of the Digital Business team, leading multidisciplinary projects to improve the registration conversion funnel of products.
Outside the lab, I like spending time outdoors or baking. I have travelled around the world, and my suitcase is always ready for new adventures.
Education
- Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, UBC Okanagan (Ongoing)
- MASc. Mechanical Engineering, UBC Okanagan
- BSc in Industrial Engineering – Federal University of São Carlos, Brazil
Research Interests
- Composites Manufacturing
- Natural Fibers Reinforcing Composites
- Industry 4.0
- Simulation & Optimization Models