Not just research: here at FBK, I found my second home

The doctoral experience is often much more than just an academic course of study: it is an immersion in an ecosystem where scientific excellence and the human dimension are constantly intertwined. In this interview, Sina Seyedibavilolyaei offers a firsthand look at his work in the field of high-tech materials and the added value of an inclusive, dynamic working environment like Trentino’s.

Academic career and research at FBK

What brought you to Trento, and what is the focus of your research?

After completing my master’s degree in Nanotechnology Engineering at Sapienza University of Rome, I was looking for a PhD program where I could apply my expertise in computational simulations and materials science. A friend of mine, Maryam Heidari, who was already at FBK, told me about a research opportunity that was a perfect fit for my background. That’s how my journey began.

My research focuses on next-generation semiconductor materials, particularly silicon carbide (SiC). Through molecular dynamics simulations and experiments, I study how aluminum ions are implanted in SiC and how the material recovers its structure during heat treatments, aiming to make the production of electronic devices more efficient and cost-effective.

How do the FBK community and ecosystem support your work?

The key element of FBK is its outstanding community of researchers and PhD students: a welcoming, stimulating work environment built on mutual support. There is always someone ready to help you, share ideas, and guide you through challenging times.

I am fortunate to work in an exceptional group: the MTSD unit at the FBK Center for Sensors & Devices. My supervisor Andrea Pedrielli, research lead Massimo Bersani, and colleagues like Roberto Canteri and Maryam Heidari give me a great deal of freedom alongside constant support. Also important are our collaboration with the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano and the opportunity to conduct research abroad, such as the time I spent at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR).

What is the practical value of your research for society?

To control the electrical properties of semiconductors, we use ion implantation—a process that damages the crystalline structure of the material. My research analyzes how these defects form at the atomic level and how they recover during heat treatment.

Silicon carbide is crucial for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and power electronics. Improving its production means creating more reliable, energy-efficient devices.

Living and working in Trento

What surprised you about life in Trento?

Compared to a large city like Rome, Trento offers a peaceful, well-organized, and manageable lifestyle that is perfect for students. What I love most is the daily connection to nature and the strong sense of community: running into colleagues and friends while walking through the city center instantly makes me feel at home.

How do you spend your free time?

I love spending time outdoors, hiking in the mountains, and visiting Trentino’s lakes, such as Lake Garda. Sharing food with friends is also very important to me: I often host outdoor barbecues with colleagues and friends from FBK to stay connected to the Iranian traditions I grew up with.

Do you have any advice for new international doctoral students?

Academically, my advice is to be proactive and reach out to other researchers; people at FBK are always willing to help. In everyday life, I suggest making the most of the welcoming community and your fellow doctoral students by getting involved in activities and building genuine relationships.

The international community and future prospects

How does FBK’s international environment enhance professional growth?

FBK’s international environment provides a fertile setting for both professional and personal growth. Working alongside doctoral students and researchers from various countries allows us to approach problems from different perspectives and find innovative solutions. The positive, inclusive atmosphere makes every researcher feel welcomed and valued right away.

What has been one of the most significant moments of your PhD?

Attending conferences and completing research stays abroad have been crucial. Often, a brief conversation with an experienced researcher can offer valuable insights to solve complex challenges. Alongside that, I really enjoy the daily routine with other doctoral students, whether we’re playing sports or spending free time together.

What are your next steps after completing your PhD?

I would love to continue working at FBK and living in Trento for the next few years. The strong professional and personal relationships I’ve built with colleagues create the ideal conditions to further advance research on semiconductors and bridge computational simulations with industrial applications.