Maria Jauregui Rozo, Technical Properties of Polymeric Materials Division
Source: BAM
Interview series "Introducing People@BAM"
Maria Jauregui Rozo, Technical Properties of Polymeric Materials Division
Maria, tell us a little bit about yourself. Why did you choose to pursue a PhD at BAM?
I come from Bogotá, Colombia. I completed my BSc in Chemical and Industrial Engineering at the University of Los Andes in Bogotá. Then, I decided to pursue my master's in Berlin. I studied Polymer Science in a joint program from the Freie Universität, Technische Universität, Humboldt Universität, and Potsdam Universität. For my master's thesis, I applied to BAM's Physical and Chemical Analysis of Polymers division and did my thesis on the properties of the epoxy-anhydride vitrimer systems. I also had the opportunity to intern at Fraunhofer IAP and the University of Potsdam. After I completed my master's studies in BAM, I really wanted to stay in BAM, so I decided to apply to do my Ph.D. in the Technical Properties of Polymeric Materials division in the Flame Retardancy Group, and now I'm pleased I had the opportunity to work in this field.
Do you have any role models, and if so, which ones?
I think my role models are my parents. They have given me so much since I was a little girl when they decided to put me into a German school to learn German and to have a better future, and they helped me to come to study in Germany, for which I will always be grateful.
What does your research focus on, and what excites you most about this topic?
My research compares fire behavior and flammability between pure epoxy resins and fiber-reinforced composites. Fiber-reinforced composites are commonly used in construction and transportation due to their attractive properties: heat and chemical resistance, corrosion resistance, durability, flexibility, and lightweight. I think this topic goes in hand with my previous studies, and what I like about it is that it can be applied in the industry. As an engineer, I think it is fascinating to research a topic that can be later used in real life.
What do you like most about your PhD experience, and how is BAM unique to other institutes?
The most enjoyable times for me during my PhD have been doing my own experiments and research because I have proven that I can pursue my ideas and succeed as an engineer/scientist. I have learned a lot from my supervisor and colleagues, and I think BAM is unique because it's a very diverse institution. You can try many different scientific methods due to all the divisions and the diversity of topics. I have had the opportunity to talk to other PhD students through the AK PhD Students and meet people from different countries and cultures. Additionally, BAM has an excellent reputation, which is suitable for my professional career.
Have there been any obstacles or challenges in your career so far? And if so, how did you overcome them?
Yes, I think the fact that I am from Colombia has brought me many challenges, like dealing with German bureaucracy or getting used to the cold weather and other cultural differences. However, the most challenging was when COVID hit. I returned to my country to be with my family and was in the middle of my 4th semester at the university. I had to wait six months to return to Germany to finish my master's. During this time, no one knew what would happen, and there was a lot of uncertainty.
What do you like to do when you're not doing research?
I like to go to CrossFit or indoor cycling courses in my free time. For me, it's essential to keep a balanced lifestyle.
If you should describe your job at BAM in one sentence - what would that be?
To succeed, working hard, learning, and persevering is essential. Don't be so hard on yourself.