In which subject are you doing your PhD? What is the topic?

After school I decided to study physics at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. After completing my Bachelor I enrolled in the Master program at the Karlsruhe School of Optics & Photonics (KSOP). Now, I am writing my doctoral thesis at one of the Institutes that KSOP cooperates with and I’m working on semiconductor nano-particles for optoelectronic applications. These nano-particles can be used, for example, in the next generation of displays of lighting as light-emitters.

Did the Graduate School play a role in your choice of a university and topic?

Through my engagement at the university association “Optics Students Karlsruhe e.V.”, I became aware of the KSOP Master program. Through personal contact to some of the KSOP PhD candidates I knew of the advantages of KSOP as a KIT graduate school. These definitely played a role in my decision to stay at KSOP.

Is there something that you especially like?

I like, that the different offered modules give you an opportunity to improve your personal and technical skills while additionally gaining basic business skills which can be important when entering employment. Additionally, you can expand your own horizon beyond the topic of your PhD. The multitude of events and conferences enabled me to get to know PhD candidates and professors from different areas and to talk to representatives of the optics industry.

How do the cooperation with collegues from different subjects and the exchange between you effect you?

The exchange lets you solve problems that are not core competences of your studies, easier and faster with the help of people from different subjects. That is especially valuable in an interdisciplinary topic like mine that covers chemistry, physics and electrical engineering.

Which advantages does the graduate school offer for your work?

Since my Master studies I receive financial support in the form of a scholarship. On top of the support for my personal use, I receive a budget for my scientific research. An additional advantage is given by the wide offer of technical modules that enable me to continuously educate myself further.