10 Questions With…George Bilitsis

1. Hello! Tell us a little bit about yourself, and what you do at UCL.

Hello! My name is George Bilitsis and I am the Research Impact Manager for the Joint Faculty. I have been in involved with HE for several years and have supported impact activities for most of that time. I just recently joined UCL and I am looking forward to exploring the opportunities the university offers.  

2. What are you most looking forward to working on over the coming months?

I am looking forward to working with departments and academics within the faculty and help promote the work and effort that goes into their research and the impact it generates. The joint faculty has incredible potential for impact and I am here to help realise that potential.  

3. What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?

I have studied International Relations and History so I could see myself working in academia but as a researcher rather than professional staff. It is a goal that I haven’t abandoned, and I hope I will have the opportunity to explore in the future.

4. What are your main interests outside work?

I like to travel and to explore destinations off the beaten track, so I am always for the next place to discover. I also, unsurprisingly given my studies, like history so strolling through a museum or visiting an old bookstore is very relaxing. I also like to cook but my smoke alarm tends to disagree.

5. Where would you like to visit once our way of life has returned to normal?

Before the pandemic and the travel restrictions I was planning for a trip to the Highlands of Scotland with friends. I am eager to see those plans realised after two years.

6. What are you reading at the moment?

Imajica by Clive Barker.

7. What would people be surprised to discover about you?

Despite appearances I do like sports and fancy myself to be a good skier

8. Where are you happiest?

A quiet beach with friends, the sea, the sky and the sun. 

9. Which famous person in history would you want to spend the day with?

Jeremy Bentham? I jest although I wouldn’t pass up on the opportunity. But honestly it is too difficult to choose just one person.

10. How was lockdown(s) for you and what did you learn from it?

Like many others I have to admit that lockdown could have been better – too many things stalled and too many plans cancelled. I did learn to value time and shared experiences like never before.