Mathematical models of the world

What is the main objective of your research?

Laura De Lorenzis: We develop mathematical models to describe mechanical processes. We not only model how materials deform and fail under mechanical stress, but also more complex phenomena such as the interaction of fluid flow and fracture in soils or the thermomechanics of 3D printing processes. To implement these models, we use numerical simulation methods and develop them further. Eventually, we validate our models through experiments.

What fascinates you most about your research?

Mechanics is a very old discipline, yet it allows to tackle an astonishing variety of brand new problems. It is fascinating for me to investigate complex phenomena to try to understand how and why they take place and to reproduce them through mathematical models. In a way we create a "virtual duplicate" of reality and experiment with it.

Why did you choose to go into mechanical engineering and later into research?

The choice of studying engineering was basically a coincidence, since I also liked many other subjects. However, once I started with my engineering studies, it soon became clear to me that I wanted to go into research: I enjoy working on ever new problems. In addition, I would like to contribute to the global understanding of things and to add something new to it.

Why did you decide to take up the position at D-MAVT?

ETH Zurich has an excellent international reputation in research and teaching. I expect and look forward to a lively and stimulating environment, multidisciplinary collaborations, enthusiastic students and a strong international network.

What do you want to reach professionally within the next 5 to 10 years?

Like most researchers, I dream of achieving a breakthrough in one of the many unresolved questions in my field. Perhaps equally important, I hope to remain curious and enthusiastic so that I can pass this attitude on to my students.

In addition to your scientific career, you are an accomplished piano player. What role does music play in your life?

For many years, music was so important to me that I thought it would determine my career. But then there was a break of several years, and only after I moved to Braunschweig I took up playing piano again. A colleague, who is also a close friend of mine, had encouraged me. Today, music is still an essential part of my life, and I hope to find many opportunities to play in Zurich and at ETH, especially with other people.

What do you do to balance work and to gain new energy?

I gain a lot of energy from spending time with family and friends, but also from music and from other hobbies such as cooking, sports and reading.

What do you recommend to students who want to pursue a career in research? What personal qualities do you need?

Curiosity and openness for new challenges are certainly very important as well as a hard work and a persistent attitude. I would also add the ability to work in a team.