University Researcher featured in inspiring new book showcasing tech career journeys

University researcher Dr Elpida Vounzoulaki is among those featured in a new book inspiring teenagers to take up a career in technology. 

‘The Tech Career Coach for Teens’, written by Beverly Clarke MBE, Rebecca Franks and Dr Tracy Gardner, aims to help young people discover their strengths and explore how they can shape the world through tech. 

The book was officially launched last month at the Houses of Parliament, alongside MPs Dawn Butler, who has a background in computer programming and Tony Vaughan, both of whom sponsored the event. 

Packed with practical advice, real-world insights, and motivational stories from professionals working across diverse fields, the book draws on real-world people and experiences including Epidemiologist Elpida.

From earning her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing to completing a PhD in Epidemiology at the University of Leicester, Elpida’s story reflects her deepening focus on understanding and improving population health. 

As an epidemiologist her work means she studies the causes and effects of diseases in populations to help protect the public’s health. She analyses community data to identify risks and understand how diseases can spread to help develop strategies to prevent and control outbreaks. 

By integrating artificial intelligence into her research, Elpida’s postdoctoral research explores how advanced data methods and artificial intelligence can enhance disease diagnosis and uncover key risk factors, illustrating how technology is transforming health research. 

A delighted Elpida said: “It’s fantastic to be featured in this new book. I’ve been involved in a number of voluntary schemes since I took up my PhD including Stem Ambassadors UK.

“I hope that hearing my story will spark something in young people out there who may not have considered a career in technology and its related subjects before. Technology is constantly evolving and if we want to reap the benefits and stay head of the curve, we need to embrace the next generation and the ideas they have.”

Elpida also volunteers at the University of Leicester, helping young people from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects through the University’s ‘Realising Opportunities’ scheme. The scheme is a collaboration of research intensive universities dedicated to promoting fair access and social mobility among underrepresented student groups - helping to boost their confidence and be more prepared for university life.

“It was great to meet some young people at the launch. I hope that the stories of persistence and hard work captured in the book will motivate even more teens to pursue their dreams,” Elpida added.