Contact Us
Studying abroad is an adventure filled with challenges and opportunities. For one University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM) graduate, Michelle Lim, the transition from UoSM to the University of Southampton (UoS) in 2020 was particularly demanding, as it coincided with the global lockdown. Adapting to a new culture and academic environment under these extraordinary circumstances was not easy. However, with unwavering support from tutors and project supervisors at UoS, the journey became manageable. Their guidance played a vital role in maintaining emotional well-being and academic success. The university further extended its support by ensuring students had access to electronic equipment and mental health resources, making remote learning more accessible and sustainable.
Currently, Michelle is thriving as a Project Engineer at SouthWestSensor Ltd., a startup rooted in the University of Southampton and now majority-owned by Skion Water Group. SouthWestSensor specialises in advanced microfluidic sensor solutions for the water industry, developing probes and analysers that utilise microfluidic colorimetric technology to monitor environmental water quality.
The journey began as a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, focusing on designing and developing filtration systems for both clean and wastewater. Over time, responsibilities expanded to include Quality Management System coordination, leading to the company’s successful achievement of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications. Today, as a Project Engineer, responsibilities include client coordination, project planning, and system diagram development, along with exploring opportunities in Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)—an exciting and meaningful endeavor.
SouthWestSensor thrives on an innovative, engaging, and collaborative work culture. The company's mission and dynamic environment immediately captivated Michelle, particularly after an inspiring company tour during the interview process. The startup atmosphere fosters growth, encouraging employees to take on varied roles and responsibilities, making every day uniquely rewarding.
Committed to sustainability, SouthWestSensor has achieved ISO 14001 certification and continues to enhance its environmental performance. As part of Skion Water, the company actively engages in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Accounting and Reporting, measuring emissions across Scope 1, 2, and 3 to minimise environmental impact. Their work aligns with global efforts to tackle pressing ecological challenges, particularly eutrophication—a major issue affecting water bodies worldwide.
When asked to describe UoSM in one word, the response was "Supporting." The guidance received from peers and lecturers played a pivotal role in shaping Michelle’s career. The Mechanical Engineering foundation, combined with a specialisation in Biomedical Engineering, opened doors to various career paths. Additionally, the prestigious research reputation of Southampton has added value, gaining recognition from employers.
A defining career decision was the willingness to explore diverse roles, including design and development, Quality Management, and Project Management. The flexibility of the startup environment at SouthWestSensor provided an ideal platform for professional growth, enabling a deeper understanding of strengths, weaknesses, and new interests.
One of the biggest challenges in the water industry today is eutrophication, which results from excessive nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, leading to harmful algae growth and oxygen depletion in water bodies. While this presents a significant environmental concern, it also opens doors for innovation in water quality monitoring and treatment. SouthWestSensor is at the forefront of addressing this issue with its advanced microfluidic sensor solutions, enabling real-time monitoring to detect nutrient imbalances and facilitate
The transition from UoSM to UoS, followed by a thriving career at SouthWestSensor, showcases the power of education, adaptability, and perseverance. Michelle’s success story is a testament to how a strong academic foundation, coupled with an openness to explore new opportunities, can lead to an exciting and impactful career. As sustainability and technological innovation continue to shape the industry, the future holds immense potential for continued growth and contribution to environmental solutions.