Abhinav Dubey's Story: From UK Graduate to Semiconductor Design Engineer in India

By Jack Gabriel Published on December 30, 2024

Abhinav Dubey, originally from Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, India, has always been deeply passionate about engineering and innovation. His journey took him from studying in the UK to building a flourishing career in the semiconductor industry in India. Currently based in Hyderabad, he works as a research and development engineer for AMD, one of the world's leading semiconductor companies.

Choosing the UK for Education

Abhinav’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Electronical and Electronics Engineering at Bangor University, followed by a Master’s in Nanotechnology and Microfabrication. Reflecting on his decision to study in the UK, Abhinav shares:

“I didn’t want to focus only on theoretical knowledge, I wanted a hands-on, practical approach to engineering. While India offers excellent education, I needed more research-oriented work. The flexibility and customisation in the UK’s course structure, combined with its focus on research, made it the perfect choice for me.”

The choice was not made in isolation. Abhinav credits his brothers, who encouraged him to explore international education and helped him shortlist universities in the UK and the US. A pivotal moment came when he attended a British Council event where representatives from various universities were available to answer questions.

"After speaking with Bangor University’s representative about the courses, modules, and alumni success stories, I felt confident that it was the right place for me," he recalls.

Adapting to Life in the UK

Arriving in the UK was both exciting and challenging. Abhinav vividly remembers his first day:

“My flight to Heathrow was delayed, and I was greeted by cold weather—much colder than anything I was used to in Gorakhpur. At the airport, I had my first taste of the local food: a full English breakfast, which I thought was quite good. From there, everything was incredibly organised, from transport to university assistance—it was a smooth transition.”

Cultural differences were subtle but notable. While he had some familiarity with British culture from media, Abhinav was surprised by the constant rain and the enthusiasm for rugby in Wales, which was new to him as a cricket fan.

"I even started enjoying rugby and participated in a few events," he shares. "It was fascinating to see how passionate people were about their sports, just like we are about cricket in India."

Challenges and Personal Growth

Despite a smooth application process and support from university representatives, Abhinav admits he faced moments of uncertainty early on.

"I wish I had interacted with alumni before starting my course," he reflects. "At 18 or 19, you think you can figure everything out, but having someone guide you on what to do—and more importantly, what not to do—would have made things easier."

His time in the UK also transformed him personally. Before he studied in the UK, Abhinav shares that he was more introverted, relying on family. Yet, this had to change:

"Being 8,000 miles away, I had to learn to manage everything on my own. It made me more independent and confident."

The Impact of UK Education on His Career

Abhinav’s UK education played a pivotal role in shaping his career. The exposure to advanced research in semiconductors, particularly in design and innovation, where the UK excels, set him on the path to becoming a semiconductor engineer.

"The knowledge I gained from my courses at Bangor, combined with the UK’s research-driven approach, gave me a significant edge when I returned to India," he explains. "Many of my professors collaborated with industry giants like ARM, and that connection helped pave the way for my career."

He highlights the growing semiconductor industry in India and the demand for skilled professionals with international experience.

"India is rapidly becoming a hub for semiconductor technology, but there’s still a gap in applying advanced research practically. My education allowed me to bridge that gap and contribute to companies like Airbus, Nokia Research, and now AMD."

Navigating the Job Market

Returning to India, Abhinav found that his UK qualifications were highly valued.

"About 80% of my teammates have studied abroad, many in the UK," he shares. "Employers appreciate the exposure and problem-solving mindset that comes with studying internationally."

He notes differences in the recruitment process between the UK and India, particularly the focus on technical expertise in Indian interviews.

"In India, interviews are more domain-specific, especially in semiconductors. They focus less on behavioural or numeracy tests and more on technical knowledge."

Advice for Aspiring Engineers

For students considering a similar path, Abhinav emphasises the importance of finding a mentor.

"A mentor can guide you through the overwhelming number of options and help you focus your efforts effectively. It’s easy to feel scattered, but with the right guidance, you can navigate your career much more smoothly."

Abhinav’s story is a testament to how international education can open doors to exciting opportunities while fostering personal growth. His passion for research and development, combined with his problem-solving mindset, continues to drive his success in the ever-evolving world of semiconductors.





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