Varnit

What inspired you to pursue this project and join the DAMC CDT?  

During my undergraduate research, I was consistently driven by the desire to develop solutions for impactful, real-world problems. The unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the accessibility of machine learning and computational methods, provided a unique opportunity to delve deeply into these domains. This period of intense exploration revealed the immense potential of these techniques to drive innovation and solve complex challenges. However, it also underscored the critical importance of building a strong foundational understanding before tackling advanced applications.

I believe a PhD is the ideal platform to build this extensive foundation, providing the rigorous training and intellectual environment necessary to achieve my research goals. The DAMC CDT is particularly appealing because it offers the perfect synergy of academic rigor and practical application. It presents a unique opportunity to both pursue my passion for becoming a researcher and to apply cutting-edge methodologies to solve tangible problems in automated chemistry. This program represents the perfect next step in my journey toward making a lasting contribution to the scientific community."

What is your research project about, and what impact do you hope it will have?     

I'm working on a project to better understand and simulate the complex chemical phenomena occurring at the interfaces of batteries. Using advanced computational approaches, primarily molecular dynamics, we're diving deep into the microscopic world of electrode-electrolyte intersections. Our research aims to unravel the intricate dynamics that govern how these interfaces behave, with a specific focus on next-generation lithium metal batteries. By simulating these dynamic battery interfaces, we can gain valuable insights into the fundamental processes that affect battery performance, safety, and longevity. This work is crucial for designing safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting batteries that will power the future. Ultimately, this research will contribute to the development of new materials and architectures for energy storage devices.

What has been the most exciting or rewarding part of your PhD journey so far? How does your project benefit from being part of an interdisciplinary CDT like DAMC?  

The most rewarding part of my PhD journey has been my colleagues, who share a similar scientific curiosity and temperament. The DAMC CDT brought me into an environment with early-stage researchers working on different aspects of science, all striving toward the shared goal of automated chemistry and tackling real-world problems. This collaborative spirit and shared purpose have made my experience incredibly fulfilling and productive.