Alegra Vezjak-Fluksi is an Engineering Doctorate at the Sustainable Process Technology section of the University of Twente’s Faculty of Science and Technology. Originally from Croatia, she graduated as a chemical engineer from the University of Zagreb.
When did you start at the University of Twente?
"I started training for an EngD in September 2024, working on the electrification of lactic acid production. My research is more design-based, closer to industrial practice, than research for a traditional PhD would be. I applied for the position because it offers an opportunity to work on a new technology."
Can you tell us what your research is about?
"In a general sense, yes. Lactic acid is usually produced through fermentation. Which means you need to keep your microorganisms happy by adding neutralisers. The process applied also generates gypsum as a by-product. We, however, try to avoid the production of gypsum via an electrochemical pathway. The goal is to create a circular, greener process."
"I found that the courses provided by the NPT in collaboration with the ISPT help you explore cutting-edge science not commonly talked about in great detail at universities or conferences"
How are you able to develop your professional knowledge and network in the Netherlands?
"Well, the range of expertise of the group I joined is wide, fortunately. And there are plenty of opportunities to pick each other’s brains. I also found that the courses provided by the NPT in collaboration with the Institute for Sustainable Process Technology, the ISPT, help you explore cutting-edge science not commonly talked about in great detail at universities or conferences and help garner ideas on how to approach obstacles in your own work. They also provide a good opportunity to connect with experts from the industry you perhaps wouldn’t otherwise have the chance to meet and to share ideas over a coffee and a laugh."
Author: NPT Process Technology
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