Merci beaucoup d'avoir accepté l'interview.
Can you please describe your student journey until your start of PhD?
Picture me: a curious small-town kid from (Pharping) Kathmandu, Nepal obsessed with science and forever sneaking glances at the hung skeleton in the old locked-up school science lab (All thanks to windows).
Fast forward to grade 7 at school, I demonstrated the electromagnetism concept to the whole town and was appreciated which made my parents proud and planted a seed for my scientific expedition. In 2018, I completed “Mechanical Engineering” from Kathmandu University and jetted off to France for a special international master’s course “Simulation and Optimization of Energy Systems” in the Ecole Nationale Supérieure en Génie des Technologies industrielles (ENSGTI), Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour, Pau, France. While my decision to choose France could open doors to countless intriguing stories, for now, I'll keep the focus limited to this point in my journey. Living near sunny Spain was a blast until COVID-19 hit. Despite the chaos, I managed to complete my master's in 2020 and returned home to Nepal. During the pandemic, I found myself in a peaceful village near the Himalayas in Nepal, breathing in the crisp mountain air that inspired clarity—and dreams of pursuing a PhD. In 2021, I returned to France to dive into the dynamic field of “Simulation of Hydrogen Ecosystem” for my PhD in Femto-st, l'université de Franche-Comté (uFC).
What is your thesis in a few words?
My thesis focuses on the "Simulation of Hydrogen Ecosystem," a broad field encompassing hydrogen’s diverse application in energy sectors. Among the myriad research possibilities in this field, my thesis focuses on studying a grid-integrated and hydrogen-based hybrid renewable energy system in which the primary goal is to emphasize green hydrogen production for the hydrogen-based vehicle application aiming for a reduction in carbon emissions, a crucial topic in global climate discussions such as COP meetings. Specifically, the research addresses an energy system that prioritizes green hydrogen production through solar photovoltaics and wind turbines using electrolysis. This hydrogen is compressed and stored to meet the demand of refueling stations for hydrogen vehicles. Simultaneously, the system ensures the fulfillment of electricity demand from renewable sources, with a specific focus on grid integration in the case study of Dijon, France. The study encompasses optimization, sizing, and energy management across different operational scenarios of components, evaluating factors such as cost, reliability, and environmental impact.
What did the thesis bring you? What do you think are the valuable skills learned through a doctorate?
The thesis journey brings to the table a wealth of experiences. Patience, perseverance, dedication, hard work, and determination are not just words, but qualities tested and refined along the way. Training programs during the PhD enhance competencies, and teaching opportunities improve communication skills while deepening knowledge of the field. Interactions with colleagues, sharing thesis topics, and participating in events strengthen bonds. It's a journey where we experience the departure of senior PhD students, the arrival of new ones, and the shared experiences with colleagues—a journey that encapsulates growth and community.
How to choose the right thesis topic/how to choose your team?
This is a thought-provoking question. When it comes to choosing a thesis topic, it's essential to follow your passion and select a field where you believe you can contribute and grow. As for selecting a team, it can be challenging to gauge trustworthiness and dynamics until you're actively involved. Trusting your instincts based on initial interactions is crucial. Additionally, reviewing the team's track record and past performance can provide valuable insights into their capabilities and compatibility.
What advice would you give to a student who wants to start a thesis?
Absolutely! Starting a PhD journey demands strong motivation. It's a roller coaster ride with highs and lows but believing in yourself and staying committed will carry you through to the end. Remember, as the saying goes, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." So, take that step and go for it! ”
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