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I grew up in Suwalki, the coldest place in Poland. I studied Geology and later worked as an academic teacher and consultant in Geotechnics and Engineering Geology. In 2006, my husband and I moved to Scotland. We now live in Paisley with our daughters. The beginnings weren’t easy. Although I had a good command of English, when I arrived I couldn’t understand anybody. I felt quite lost. Visiting libraries helped a lot. I read books about Glasgow, and had opportunities to talk with people who didn’t speak with such a strong local accent.
Three months after my arrival, I found a job at the University of Glasgow. Later, I was awarded a stipend to do a PHD at what’s now the University of West of Scotland. I researched sandstone decay, its causes and patterns. Glasgow has many beautiful buildings, and I have found that most stone decay is caused by a lack of maintenance. I believe that building owners can stop immediate problems without a lot of money just by cleaning the gutters and pipes as it’ll stop water leaks over the facades.
My passion for ecological buildings together with the skills gained during my PhD studies come in handy nowadays when the world needs low carbon buildings. I am proud that I am able to help prevent deterioration of sandstone buildings that are such an important part of Scottish heritage!
Marta Zurakowska
Sandstone researcher
I grew up in Suwalki, the coldest place in Poland. I studied Geology and later worked as an academic teacher and consultant in Geotechnics and Engineering Geology. In 2006, my husband and I moved to Scotland. We now live in Paisley with our daughters. The beginnings weren’t easy. Although I had a good command of English, when I arrived I couldn’t understand anybody. I felt quite lost. Visiting libraries helped a lot. I read books about Glasgow, and had opportunities to talk with people who didn’t speak with such a strong local accent.
Three months after my arrival, I found a job at the University of Glasgow. Later, I was awarded a stipend to do a PHD at what’s now the University of West of Scotland. I researched sandstone decay, its causes and patterns. Glasgow has many beautiful buildings, and I have found that most stone decay is caused by a lack of maintenance. I believe that building owners can stop immediate problems without a lot of money just by cleaning the gutters and pipes as it’ll stop water leaks over the facades.
My passion for ecological buildings together with the skills gained during my PhD studies come in handy nowadays when the world needs low carbon buildings. I am proud that I am able to help prevent deterioration of sandstone buildings that are such an important part of Scottish heritage!