Mr Devanraj Letchumanan

Upon undergoing a BEng degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, I decided to start my career in the field of Microelectronics due to my interest in VLSI & digital design. The main factor which drove me into this field was the ever growing technology fronts developed in the world of Microelectronics which constantly gives me the opportunity to learn new things.

I also dreamt of an opportunity to work in the forefront of Microelectronics technology and so decided I wanted to join a company which could provide me with such a platform. Three years on I got the opportunity to do the work that I was yearning for, I then decided that I would like to cement my career in this field and provide myself with adequate further studies to enhance my engineering skills further so undertook my MSc Microelectronic & Communications Engineering at Northumbria University. Now, six years on I've been able to grow and continue to grow as a technical leader in the Microelectronics and Semiconductor industry.

What are you doing now?

I'm currently a Senior Failure Analysis R&D Engineer with Intel Corporation.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

The mixture of the course module which had a blend of both Microelectronic & Communication subjects. Also, being a die-hard Newcastle United fan, I had always wanted to fulfil my boyhood dream of watching my favourite team play at St James' Park.

What was it like studying at Northumbria? Was there a mix of lectures, seminars, team projects? Was the feedback constructive?

I never knew studying could be an enjoyable experience. The subjects were taught interestingly and in a pretty interactive manner. There were a mix of classroom lessons, team and individual projects, one-to-ones, seminars as well as lab sessions which most of us looked forward to. Discussions and suggestions were always welcomed and encouraged.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

I was most impressed at the vast experience each of the lecturer or professor had in their particular subject and area of expertise and how they constantly keep abreast of the latest developments in the industry.

How connected was your course with industry? Did you have a placement, work on projects? Were there interesting guest lecturers?

My course was a 1 year postgraduate program hence there was no industrial projects attached to it. Nevertheless, a lot could be learnt via the final project as well as from the experiences and materials shared by the academic staff.

How did Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/give your career an edge?

Studying at Northumbria helped me improve and enhance my technical competencies in order for me not to only become better at what I'm doing but also enable me to diversify and expand my scope of work based on the technical knowledge gained. This directly helps my career growth and achieve my career goal to become a technical leader in the field of Microelectronics.

What was the best thing about your course?

The best thing about my course was the freedom given to think innovatively and a study system which allows independent learning as this produces better minded graduates.

What skills/knowledge did you learn from your course that you use most now throughout your career?

The skill which I deeply treasure and continuously use to date is 'digital logic design flow' and 'register transfer language'.

How would you describe yourself in three words before coming to Northumbria?

Introvert, lone wolf and anxious.

How would you describe yourself in three words after you graduated at Northumbria?

Independent, confident and cheerful.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

The football, the city, the campus and the student diversity.

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying at Northumbria?

It's a decision you will never regret and you'll cherish the experience forever.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Fun, fulfilling & MINT!!!