Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

Solving problems at the steel plants, process and product improvements, new project proposals, collaboration with other research institutions, universities and SMEs, ensure relevant state of the art knowledge within my area of expertise is captured and desiminated within the organisation.

Researchers are given autonomy to manage their day, the following activists are typical:
Lab experiments, discussing collaborative opportunities both within the organisation I.e. Other researchers or departments, project proposal development, paper reading/ knowledge building, report writing. At times visits to plant are necessary, usually to meet with internal stakeholders of the project. Attendance to conference and external lectures do occur as well occasionally.

Fairly flexible working.

Believe it or not - sales! Selling your project ideas to potential stakeholders. A lot of work has to go in before an actual project proposal comes into fruition. The challenging bit is to first get talking to others within the organisation (note that it is a large company and the people you might want to work with are usually not within easy reach) to create buy in for your ideas.

Natural progression from my area of expertise.

Mostly skills I developed during my PhD. Although 'soft skills' are equally, if not more important, depending on your career goals.

Have been with Tata ever since I graduated.

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Do not neglect "soft skills". Others won't notice your brilliance if you can't effectively convey your thoughts in a way that they can understand. A good way to practice is to give oral presentations whenever you get the chance.