I4WORLD secondment experiences
From January to May 2026, I spent four months at Empa (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) in Dübendorf, Switzerland, as part of my doctoral research at the University of Oulu within the I4WORLD programme. The visit was a rewarding opportunity to deepen my scientific understanding, learn new experimental techniques, and build connections with researchers working on cementitious materials.
My research explores magnesium-based binder systems for the development of more sustainable construction materials. During my secondment, I investigated different properties of hydrotalcite and dypingite, two phases formed in these systems. Working at Empa allowed me to benefit from the team’s expertise and explore my research questions from new perspectives.
One valuable part of my stay was learning to perform indentation measurements. These techniques use a small tip pressed into a material’s surface to investigate its mechanical properties at small scales. The training helped me develop practical skills in conducting the experiments and understanding the measurements.
Throughout the visit, my Empa co-supervisor, Dr. Ellina Bernard, provided close guidance and valuable scientific insights. Her deep understanding of my project and dedication to research contributed greatly to the work and to my development as a researcher. More broadly, I appreciated how generously colleagues at Empa shared their time, expertise, and support, making me feel welcome in a new research environment.
Beyond the laboratory, the visit also left me with many wonderful memories of Switzerland—including meeting penguins at Zurich Zoo!
I warmly thank Dr. Ellina Bernard, Dr. Michal Hlobil, and everyone at Empa who contributed to this experience. I am also grateful to my supervisors at Oulu, Professor Päivö Kinnunen and Dr. Hoang Nguyen, for their continued trust, guidance, and support, and to the Fiber and Particle Engineering research unit and the I4WORLD programme for supporting and funding the visit.
I returned to Oulu with new knowledge, fresh ideas, and stronger scientific connections. Most importantly, the secondment strengthened the collaboration between the University of Oulu and Empa, and I look forward to continuing the work we started together.
More information on Mina and her research project.
The I4WORLD (Imaging and Characterisation for a Sustainable World) doctoral programme co-funded by the European Union.