AEA Graduate Profile: Simon Henry

Name: Simon Henry
Qualifications: BSc Geography, University of Southampton, MSc Environmental Technology, Imperial College, London
Current Role: Research Consultant, AEA Graduate Programme, Technical Consultant, Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) project

In my role I…

I’ve been working at AEA since October 2007. I generally work on a specific consultancy project which lasts for approximately a month or so, so relatively short-term.

For example, I looked at the environmental sustainability of bio-fuels, which involved mainly literature research. I also carried out a sustainable development review for the Department for Transport, which involved mapping their business objectives against sustainable development principles. I’ve also been involved in a bio-energy project, providing the Environment Agency with an overview of how much bio-energy is being produced.

I’m carrying out consultancy to a wide range of clients and customers and using a broad range of skills including computer software skills, using life-cycle analysis software, and developing my industry expertise.

The highlights of the role…

The bio-fuels project was a significant piece of work. I provided a key input which looked at international food access, and the impacts on global soil and water resources. It was very interesting to work on, and very relevant to the bio-fuels industry.

A lot of the work I do feeds into future policy development, which is very interesting

The best thing about working at AEA…

AEA is a very welcoming company, and it’s very easy to fit in. It’s exciting to be part of a growing, dynamic company, where there are lots of people who have very similar technical skills to me. The company’s collective knowledge is very impressive, and it’s great to be part of it.

Since joining AEA, I have learnt…

A lot about nuclear power. I’ve developed strong skills in life-cycle analysis and learnt how to use the software that goes with it. I’ve also learnt about Government policy on climate change, which influences a lot of the work I’m involved with, and how it’s developed and influenced.