Tell us about yourself (Where do you study in Italy and Why did you want to do a PhD? Why did you select the SDC?
I am Muluken from the University of Messina, Laboratory of Catalysis for Sustainable Production and Energy (CASPE).
Where were/are you during your period abroad, and how long did/will you stay there?
I am currently at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) in Tarragona, Spain, where I will be staying until the end of December. Following this, I will continue as an intern at Orchestra Scientific, a spin-off company of ICIQ that focuses on CO₂ adsorption and separation technologies. My supervisors at the University of Messina, Prof. Centi and Prof. Perathoner, recommended ICIQ and Orchestra Scientific due to their strong reputation and expertise in the field.
What were/are your first impressions of the university, your supervisor, and the research team? Did you feel well integrated into the team?
Prof. José Ramón Galán, whom we call JR, made a strong impression with his excellent sense of humor and supportive supervision style. His approach keeps the group motivated and creates a relaxed, productive atmosphere, making day-to-day work enjoyable. The members of the research group are extremely helpful and foster a collaborative, friendly environment, which made my integration into the team smooth and effortless.
Did/Do you face any challenges during your time abroad? If so, what were they ?How did you solve them? What advice would you offer to colleagues preparing for their own experience abroad (particularly regarding administrative practices, funding, or opportunities specific to the destination country)?
One of the most challenging aspects for me was obtaining a visa and residence permit. Although I already held a residence permit from one EU country, moving to another as a visiting researcher under an agreement required a different process that was not initially clear to me. I am still working to secure my residence permit. For researchers and students from non-EU countries, I strongly recommend researching the specific visa and residency requirements well in advance and starting the application process early to avoid delays.
What are your plans upon returning (or after your return) to Italy? Do you feel your time abroad enriched your research project and personal growth? If so, how? Additionally, do you believe you made a meaningful contribution to the activities at the host university? If yes, in what ways?
Upon returning to Italy, I plan to further develop the results obtained during my time abroad, particularly in the area of ethanol electrooxidation, as my previous work focused on nitrate and CO₂ electroreduction. This area is relatively new to me, and my experience here has significantly deepened my understanding of the challenges involved, especially in the oxidation of highly concentrated ethanol. This experience has enriched both my research project and personal growth. I believe I made a meaningful contribution to the host institution by working on a complex pathway for ethanol oxidation, striving to achieve significant results that could advance the field.
What aspects of the local culture stood out to you (something you loved or perhaps found challenging)? Was there a favorite place where you enjoyed spending time, and how did you make the most of your free time?
Life in Italy and Spain feels quite similar, with both cultures embracing a slower pace and a strong focus on work-life balance. Despite their dedication to economic development, it’s inspiring to see people enjoying life—walking with family, socializing in cafés, and simply savoring the moment. In my free time, I often traveled to Barcelona to explore the city and attend FC Barcelona matches, a special experience for me as a lifelong fan since my high school days in Ethiopia.