Super Seven #12 Rebecca Ford
In the twelfth of our Super Seven Questions Series we profile our Quantum Communications Engineer, Rebecca Ford. Rebecca will be working with our Tech Team for six months on the implementation and application of QKD in telecommunications and space. We’re very excited she’s joining the team, not least with her being from Halifax, she increases our northern contingent!
1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Rebecca, and I studied Physics at the University of Nottingham. I recently moved down to Bristol for a graduate job, and as part of that I get to do placements in different companies, and I’m so happy I chose to join KETS for 6 months!
2. Why did you decide to study Physics?
I decided to study Physics because I love Maths and problem solving, and applying these to the real world. At first, I loved learning about the stars and planets, but then I realised it was so much more. Doing Physics allowed me to learn answers to some of the big questions kids tend to ask, that a lot of parents tend not to know, such as; why is the sky blue? and how do planes fly? Knowing how these things work is still amazing to me and I wouldn’t have chosen to study anything else.
3. What will you be working for your six month placement at KETS?
I’ve only just started my placement, so I’m still learning lots about what KETS do, how their technology works, and what everyone’s role is in the business. I’m hoping to work on a few projects while I am here, including both the technical and the business side of things, and I’m excited to get started!
4. What inspires you?
I know it sounds cheesy, but the thing that inspires me is making a difference. It doesn’t matter how small, and whether it’s in a professional or personal capacity, but knowing that you’ve made a positive impact beats anything else.
5. What advice would you give someone wanting to take part in a placement at KETS?
I was initially worried about coming into a placement where I felt a bit out of my depth as I wasn’t a subject expert in quantum technology and I’d never worked in a small team before. However, the people at KETS have been so welcoming and there’s so much support, so my advice would be to just jump in and have a go.
6. What do you do when you’re not at work?
I’m a big foodie so I love going out to different restaurants and I was so happy when I found all the street food markets that go on in Bristol! I love cooking and trying out new recipes, I’m always on the look out for more and I spent far too much time watching recipe videos. I also love a good trip to the pub! As a member of CAMRA I’m always on the lookout for local breweries and new beers, and Bristol did not disappoint!
7. Where’s the last restaurant you went to?
The last restaurant I went to was Seven Lucky Gods in Wapping Wharf, which is a Japanese restaurant inspired by the Izakaya bars of Tokyo. I must say it’s my favourite restaurant in Bristol so far and I would highly recommend the Kimchi Fries…
To get in touch with Rebecca, drop us an email at enquiry@kets-quantum.com