Profile

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John Allport

My CV

  • Education:

    Nottingham University, Bradford University

  • Qualifications:

    I studied Maths, Physics , Chemistry and Computer Studes at A level, have a BEng degree in Mechanical Engineering from Nottingham University and a PhD from Bradford University

  • Work History:

    I started my career as an apprentice for the National Coal Board, working down a coal mine. I then moved to a company making industrial centrifuges, and worked in the chemical industry and on oil rigs around the world. After that, I changed career path and started as an automotive engineer, wher I worked for 25 years before becoming a university professor.

  • Current Job:

    Professor of Automotive Engineering and Director of the Turbocharger Research Institute

  • About Me:

    I’m a well travelled enthusiastic engineer!

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    I live in a small village in the South Pennines with my family. Outside of work, I am a keen canoeist and mountain biker, although not as quick as I used to be!!

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    As Professor of Automotive Engineering, it may seem strange that I am here discussing Aerospace Engineering. However, my specialist field is Turbocharging, where we use Aerospace technology in an Automotive environment. I lead the Turbocharger Research Institute at the University of Huddersfield, where we work on new design methods, materials and uses for turbomachinery associated with internal combustion engines. This provides all sorts of challenges, across a very wide range of subjects – mathematical and chemical, as well as in understanding the physics of the situation.

  • My Typical Day:

    Every day is different, with new challenges, ideas and interesting things to do, it’s never predictable or boring!!

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    I read my email over breakfast, then travel to the university, arriving about 8:15. My first stop is usually the test labs, where I check progress on the many practical projects that we are working on. I will then go to my office and catch up with my staff, before responding to any mail that needs a reply. After that, anything can happen! Some days are taken up testing new designs, others may be meeting people from industry who are setting up collaborations to carry out applied research. During term time, I may be teaching, setting or marking exams or tutoring students.

  • My Interview

    • How would you describe yourself in 3 words?

      Practical, active, different

      What did you want to be after you left school?

      Airline Pilot

      What don't you like about your current job?

      The paperwork!!

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