My research visit to the University of Bath between April and June 2026 provided an exceptional opportunity to advance my work within a highly supportive, collaborative and research-intensive academic environment. The trip is the first of three research visits as part of my King’s Commonwealth Research Fellowship, funded by the Bath Institute of Sustainability and Climate Change (ISCC).

Renewable bio-resources

Laksham Sanassee meeting with King Charles III at an event — King's Commonwealth Fellow, Laksham Sanassee meeting King Charles III just prior to his research trip.

My research focuses on developing sustainable engineering materials from renewable bio-resources, with a particular emphasis on how Mauritius’s abundant marine resources can be better utilised. I explore how waste from industries such as fishing can be transformed into high-value biomaterials to create biocompatible composites. A key application of this work is the development of sustainable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based prosthetic liners, using multi-layered materials designed to improve comfort, durability and antimicrobial performance - particularly important in hot, humid climates - while supporting circular economy approaches and reducing reliance on fossil-derived materials.

I had the opportunity to present the progress of my research at a lunchtime seminar organised by the Bath Institute for Sustainability and Climate Change. The seminar provided a valuable platform to share my ongoing work, discuss the development of sustainable materials from renewable marine and terrestrial bio-resources and receive constructive feedback from an interdisciplinary audience. It also allowed me to communicate the wider relevance of my research in relation to sustainability, circular economy principles, climate-resilient innovation, and the blue economy. This seminar has opened further opportunities for dialogue, collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Advanced facilities

Laksham in a lab coat and googles in the chemistry lab at the University of Bath — Laksham in the chemistry lab at the University of Bath.

During my visit, I greatly benefited from the excellent research facilities available on campus, as well as the accessibility of laboratory resources, specialist equipment, and technical support. The campus provided a well-organised research environment where laboratories, analytical facilities, and academic resources were accessible and efficiently managed. This enabled me to conduct important experimental work, strengthen my technical understanding and reflect more critically on the development of sustainable engineering materials from renewable bio-resources. The availability of advanced facilities, combined with the guidance of experienced staff, made the visit particularly valuable for progressing my research.

One of the most enriching aspects of the visit was the opportunity to work alongside a wide range of researchers within the Chemistry laboratories. The collaborative culture was particularly impressive. The researchers were approachable, supportive and always willing to share their experience, technical knowledge, and practical advice. There was a strong sense of mutual understanding, respect and cooperation among researchers which created a positive and productive research atmosphere. This environment encouraged open discussion, problem-solving, and knowledge exchange, all of which contributed significantly to my learning and professional development.

Productive and memorable

I am deeply grateful to my Bath supervisor and ISCC core member, Professor Matthew Jones for the guidance, encouragement, and support provided throughout the visit, and to my University of Mauritius supervisor, Professor Haree Ramasawmy for the continued academic direction and mentorship. I also extend my sincere appreciation to the staff at the University of Bath for their assistance with laboratory access, equipment and analytical facilities. Special thanks are also due to the researchers in the Chemistry laboratories, whose kindness, generosity, and willingness to share their knowledge made my research visit both productive and memorable.

Their support contributed greatly to the success of my visit and has left a lasting positive impression on my academic and research journey. I look forward to returning for my next visit in 2027 and will continue to work closely with colleagues at Bath remotely in the meantime.