Researcher Highlight – Michel Kuhfuß from Project F
We hope to give a better insight to the program by introducing our PhD students. We ask them about their research and how they became a member of our IRTG. This time we would like to introduce you to Michel Kuhfuß who is working in our Project F – Room Temperature Aerosol Deposition of Lead-Free Ferroelectric Films for Energy Conversion Systems:
Where do you come from, and how did you become a part of the IRTG program?
I grew up in Bösingfeld, which is a village in North Rhine-Westphalia close to small cities like Lemgo, Rinteln or Hamelin. After school, I moved to Göttingen for my bachelor’s degree in materials science and my master’s degree in physics. I came across the IRTG program as I stumbled upon the call for applications while searching for a PhD position. I applied for it and Prof. Webber offered me to continue project F as part of his working group.
Why did you decide to continue your research after your Master thesis?
I just liked the way research works. Therefore, I was very excited to work on my own project and to focus on it for an expanded period of time compared to the master’s thesis. In my opinion, a PhD program and especially the IRTG program remain a fantastic opportunity to acquire a vast skill set and grow as a person. Additionally, for me, this program provides a unique combination of a meaningful topic and research stay abroad.
Tell us a little bit about your current research for the IRTG.
I am continuing on the work of my predecessor Juliana Maier about the aerosol deposition of ferroelectric films. Aerosol deposition is a technique associated with distinctive opportunities as well as challenges. To utilize it, it is critical to understand the mechanisms behind it.
Currently, I am depositing my first few films with the aerosol deposition setup and try to complement the work that has been done beforehand.
What is one goal in your life?
I do not set many long-term goals for myself, aside from living a fulfilling life or finishing my PhD. But one vague goal I have is to write a book.
What is the best book you have ever read?
I do not think I can answer this question while being satisfied with my answer a year later. However, some books that I have appreciated very much and that have influenced my taste in books are ‚Der Spielmann‘ by Oilver Pötzsch and ‚Azincourt‘ by Bernard Cornwell.