Who’s who in MACE – Mostafa Nabawy

Meet MACE Research and impact 25th November 2019

Here at MACE we have a truly wide range of research expertise, applied to engineering projects of all sizes. One of our academics operating at the smaller end of the scale (strictly in terms of components, rather than ideas) is Mostafa Nabawy, lecturer in Aerospace Engineering. We caught up with Mostafa for some quickfire questions to find out how he is making big strides with little machines…

What is your role at the University?
I lead the Microsystems area of research expertise and teach undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Aerospace Engineering.

Give us a very brief overview of what you did before working in MACE.
I’ve always been learning! I went from doing a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree at Cairo University to doing my PhD here in MACE.

“My aim is always to make the world a better place”

What does your research cover?
Three main things: (1) aerodynamics with focus on wings; (2) aircraft design with focus on drones; and (3) Microsystems engineering with focus on bio-inspired micro-robots.

How can your research benefit society?
My aim is always to provide novel engineering solutions that can make the world a better place. For example, my micro-robots are aimed at applications such as decontamination of extreme environments, surveying locations that are difficult to access, and artificial pollination.

What do you love the most about your job?
There are three things in particular: working with energetic and passionate students (this always makes me feel young); working with top-level academic minds (this always keeps me motivated); and being constantly introduced to new scientific challenges (this always keeps my brain cells working).

What’s the best thing about Manchester?
The people!

Who or what inspires/motivates you?
Ludwig Prandtl (a German engineer known as the father of aerodynamics) and nature!

“I love working with our energetic and passionate students”

Why is engineering important?
Without engineering, science could not be applied in reality! Our job is to make clever assumptions to allow new devices/objects/lifestyles to happen.

What is your top tip for living in Manchester?
Never trust the weather – it could change any second!

Any hidden gems we should know about?
There is a hidden gem called “The Hidden Gem”, which is a Catholic Church on Mulberry Street, close to The John Rylands Library which is worth checking out.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I am workaholic, but I manage to secure one hour for playing football every week which is, with no doubt, my best hour of the week.

What would be your top desert island disc, your top desert island book and your one luxury item?
Disc: Music by 2CELLOS (Croatian cello duo);
Book: Many but as an example: Modern Science Writing by Richard Dawkins;
Luxury Item: a Breitling watch

Find out more about Mostafa’s Microsystems research at the group’s website.

Want to meet more MACE staff, students and alumni? Check out the ‘Meet MACE’ section of the blog.

Aerospace Engineering