Dr Jiada Tu

Research Software Engineer

What do you do?

 I am a research software engineer at ARC, specializing in multidisciplinary research and scientific software development on Linux (HPC) and Windows platforms. With expertise in the full software lifecycle and a strong grasp of Scrum agile project management, I excel in finite elements and software best practices. As a team player, I thrive in collaborative environments. Outside of work, I enjoy playing the erhu, blending my passion for music with my technical pursuits. 

How are you involved in this area of science? 

 I played a pivotal role in the code refactoring project, particularly in converting code from MATLAB to Python to meet open-source requirements. The code was originally developed for the GEMS project, and primarily used to simulate and optimize mine-water heating solutions, helping our industry partners (Coal Authority and Town Rock Energy) manage mine water heating resources more effectively. 

We chose to convert the code to Python for several reasons. Firstly, Python is widely used and offers a rich array of open source libraries, along with strong cross-platform compatibility. This allows more developers and users to access and use the tools easily. Secondly, the active Python community fosters collaboration and sharing, which can accelerate project iteration and improvement. By making the code open source, we can ensure that it is more widely validated, optimized, and transparent, allowing both industry and academia to drive technological advancements together.  

The refactoring process involved not only translating and optimizing the code but also ensuring its compatibility and functionality in a new programming environment. My contributions extended beyond coding; I effectively communicated with two key partners to ensure alignment on project goals and requirements. Additionally, I actively participated in organising and conducting workshops, providing insights and support to facilitate the transition and upskill team members in Python. These workshops were instrumental in promoting best practices and knowledge sharing within the team, contributing to a smooth and efficient code refactoring process. My efforts helped ensure the project’s success and compliance with open-source standards, while fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer among team members and partners. 

What do you love about this topic?

I love this topic because it represents a crucial step towards sustainable energy solutions. Geothermal energy not only reduces our reliance on fossil fuels but also supports the global effort towards carbon neutrality. Contributing to such projects gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment, knowing that I'm actively working towards a cleaner and greener future. It's fulfilling to apply my skills in a field that aligns with my values of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. Every advancement in geothermal technology brings us closer to a more resilient and eco-friendly energy landscape, which is something I find deeply inspiring and motivating. 

How does this work deliver real-world impact?

Efforts to advance geothermal energy can revolutionize our energy landscape by slashing carbon emissions from traditional sources. Harnessing the Earth’s natural heat offers reliable, sustainable energy to communities, industries, and homes, crucially mitigating climate change and improving air quality. Geothermal technology not only fosters job creation and economic growth in renewables but also bolsters energy security. Embracing geothermal energy promises a cleaner environment and a sustainable future for generations. Evaluating the long-term viability of mine water heat extraction through precise numerical modelling ensures informed decisions for future production sites, maximising efficiency and minimising environmental impact. 

Find out more:

• Learn more about how we're supporting mine water heat initiatives in the North East.
• Read more about the Gateshead mine water heat network.