Dr Alix Partridge CO11 Shares Expertise on a Career in Robotics

Pupils were recently treated to an inspiring career talk from Old Truronian Dr Alix Partridge CO11 who has gone on to become a Senior Robotics Engineer at The National Robotarium in Edinburgh. His talk offered a fascinating insight into the fast-moving world of robotics and academia, and what it is like to pursue a career at the forefront of innovation.

After leaving Truro School with A Levels in Geography, Further Maths, English and Physics, he admitted that he had no clear plan for what to do next. However, the right opportunities at the right time and an inspiring maths teacher in Mr McCabe (Head of Maths 2008-2022), whom he credited as a “great maths teacher.”

Initially, Alix began a degree in Geography and Environmental Management at the University of the West of England (UWE), but soon realised his true interests lay elsewhere. He switched to Mathematics, a decision that opened the door to where he is now.

After graduating, he gained practical experience through an internship at the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, where he first encountered the field that would become his career. A year spent teaching English in Japan followed, and a chance to ruminate if robotics was truly the career for him.

After returning from Japan, Alix completed a Master’s in Robotics at the University of York, before returning to Bristol to undertake a PhD which his research based in soft robotics. His research focused on creating flexible, adaptive robots inspired by biological systems, a growing area of robotics that blends engineering, computing, and creativity.

Now based in Edinburgh, where he lives with his partner, he works at The National Robotarium, leading projects that push the boundaries of what robots can do in real-world environments.

During his talk, he offered students advice on how to begin a career in robotics, discussing the kinds of qualifications and skills that are most valued in the field. He recommended A Levels such as Physics, Maths, Further Maths and the importance of taking time for own creative hobbies alongside schoolwork.

There was also lively discussion about engineering and robotics companies in Cornwall, highlighting opportunities that exist closer to home.

Huge thanks to Alix for showing the pupils how to be a ro-boss at robotics!