I did my Master in Applied Physics from University of engineering and technology, Pakistan. During my master, I worked on many different areas and developed extensive knowledge about doing research. My master thesis was based on the mathematical modelling of high temperature thermal energy storage system for solar thermal power plant applications. I also worked on the analytical mathematical methodology to solve partial differential equations to simulate thermal energy storage model.
PhD position
I authored two review articles, which not only shaped my thinking about research fields, but also helped me to develop analytical and scientific writing skills. I also got an opportunity to review papers from renowned journals IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy and International Journal of Energy Research. After getting such good experience in research field, I became motivated and enthusiastic to pursue my career in this direction, so I started to look for PhD positions. I applied for a PhD position at NTNU Gjøvik in May 2016, and I got the position and started in October 2016.
Atomistic modelling of multi-material interfaces
My PhD thesis topic is Atomistic modelling of multi-material interfaces. My PhD is part of a large project working on Multi-Material Products and Processes in SFI Manufacturing. Part of this project is experimentally working on the interfacial microstructure and mechanical properties of dissimilar materials in Trondheim. Where they are using high definition microscopic images to study the properties of dissimilar materials using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and HAADF-STEM techniques. PhD candidates involved in this experimental study are Siri Marthe Arbo and Tina Bergh. Experimental input provided by Siri Marthe and/or Tina are used to run DFT calculations to study nanostructure material’s interface properties. I am responsible for the DFT calculations to extrapolate experimental data.
Nanostructure changes mechanism
The basic motivation of an improved understanding of these nanostructured materials is the need to develop further use of efficient and lightweight technologies for automotive industry, aerospace, aviation, shipbuilding, railway and transportation industries, to not only perform efficiently, but also use less fuel to minimize the consumption cost. My project provides the basic information about the nanostructure changes mechanism during the welding of dissimilar materials to help experimentalist to improve their welding methodologies. My initial plan is to study the interfaces of aluminum and steel using density functional theory approach by developing atomistic model using the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images.
1st month of my PhD
During my 1st month of my PhD, I worked on my PhD project description and read a lot of literature. I also met with some of the good researchers in my field, who gave me some important insights and ideas to develop my understanding. Therefore, I am hopeful, the next three years of my PhD will be very productive and useful. I am really excited and looking forward to the next three learning years as a PhD candidate.