From early on in academia, I've been captivated by the mechanics of solids and thus it became the focus of my doctoral research, where I worked on some problems relating to the mechanics of extreme elastic-plastic deformation (more on this below). During this time, I learned an enormous amount from Peter Howell, who (literally) wrote the book on applied solid mechanics. Although not the focus of my current research, I try to keep abreast of the latest research in solid mechanics and seek to re-engage with the field in the near future.