Between the Andes and the Lab: A Research Stay in Chile

Who are you, and what is your current research focus?

I am a research associate at the Institute of Electrical Energy Conversion at the University of Stuttgart. My research focuses on the development of contactless inductive power transfer systems for electrically excited synchronous machines (EESM). The EESM represents a promising alternative to the conventional permanent‑magnet synchronous machine in the field of electromobility, as it does not require rare‑earth permanent magnets. The goal of my work is to replace the wear‑prone slip rings of the EESM with contactless inductive couplers.

Where did your research stay take you, and why did you choose Chile?

My research stay took me to the Power & Energy Conversion Laboratory at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile from October to December 2025. I chose Chile because of its strong expertise in power electronics and the already well‑established connection with Professor Felix Rojas. In addition to the technical exchange, I was also interested in gaining intercultural insights into a different working environment and in developing personally through the country’s diversity.

What did you work on during your stay, and what new impulses were you able to gain for your research?

The inductive coupler for electrically excited synchronous machines is operated mainly in the absolute partial‑load range during the drive cycle. As a result, the inverter’s switching losses dominate the overall energy losses of the contactless power transfer system. During my stay, I investigated possibilities for reducing inverter losses.

My investigations were based on the inductive coupler developed within the ICM project GIKEES. A key focus of my work was the computationally efficient modeling of switching losses. In addition, I examined a multi‑inverter topology aimed at improving system efficiency.

How will the collaboration with your partners in Chile continue?

The results of my research stay will be published at the IEEE Wireless Power Technology Conference and Expo (WPTCE) in summer 2026. The cooperation with Chile is also expected to be further expanded in the future, and a joint research proposal has already been submitted.

How do you experience mobility in Chile compared to Germany?

In Santiago de Chile, I encountered a very well‑developed public transport network that operates significantly more reliably than in Germany. Particularly striking is the large number of electric buses, which have already become a characteristic part of the cityscape. At the same time, private transport plays a major role in Chile, with combustion-engine vehicles still dominating, alongside many models from Asian manufacturers.

Was there anything that particularly surprised or impressed you?

It was surprising to see how different the private university system in Chile is compared to ours. This experience made me appreciate the high value of free access to education and the secure working conditions for doctoral researchers in Germany. I also came to value the advantages of Germany as a business location, with its numerous collaborations and projects involving industry partners.

What was work and life like at your host university?

My stay at the host university was very pleasant and characterized by an open and welcoming atmosphere. I was warmly received at the institute and quickly integrated into daily life through shared, sociable lunch breaks. In addition to the professional exchange, leisure activities such as going to bars together or a group trip into the Andes strengthened the sense of community. Particular highlights included the PEClab Asado, a traditional barbecue hosted by Professor Rojas, as well as preparing Completos together.

What do you take away from your stay? Would you recommend the “Future Mobility Grants” for an international research stay, and why?

One of the most lasting aspects was the experience of getting to know a different academic and cultural working environment. At the same time, I found that life outside the university can occasionally be challenging with only limited Spanish skills. Despite some minor, mainly language‑related, hurdles, I can wholeheartedly recommend such a research stay to all future fellows. The professional, personal, and intercultural experiences are unique and extremely valuable for personal development.