Interview with the new postdoctoral researcher in the BEST project, Mertol Gökelma
News from 2018
Interview with the new postdoctoral researcher in the BEST project, Mertol Gökelma
The BEST project is an innovation project with Hydro Aluminium as project owner. The project is funded by the research council of Norway and the industry partners and the research partners are SINTEF Industry and NTNU. We got a chance to sit down with Mertol Gökelma, who is the new postdoctoral researcher representing NTNU in the project. His main topic for the postdoc period is to carry on the research activities for the inclusion removal from Al-melts and co-supervision of relevant student theses with Prof. Gabriella Tranell
So, how long have you been here in Trondheim?
Mertol: I came to Norway in December, before that I worked on the project in Germany for a couple of months, at RWH Aachen University.
What did you do before you started on this project?
I was at RWTH Aachen University for four years as a scientific researcher and PhD candidate, and I worked on projects, related to aluminium melt cleanliness, powder metallurgy and precious metals recycling.
Just judging by your first impression, what would you say separates Aachen University from NTNU?
In the German system, the Post-Doc is not really defined, because the academical structure is different. There is no a common step between doctorate and professor. As a Post-Doc in Norway however, you get to take on more responsibility than a PhD candidate, and even hold lectures. So, I am happy that I will do the Post-Doc in Norway.
Have you had any lectures yet?
No, but my supervisor, Gabriella Tranell will have a sabbatical period outside of Norway, so I will assist with her lectures while she is away. It will probably be the metal refining course, which is part of the regular master’s program. It will include a three days’ workshop with the industry, which we are looking forward to.
Sounds great. How do you find Trondheim?
The type of city is not very new to me, as it is very similar to Aachen in many ways. The population and area are very similar, and both cities have around 40-45 000 students. Also, both cities have no metro or trains, so you are dependent on buses to get around. Though to be fair, you can get by just fine with a bike or just walking. I actually enjoy this type of city, with no big buildings, no towers and such.
Have you had the time to enjoy some of Trondheim’s attractions or the nature?
I had two company visits in small cities in Norway, it was interesting to see how small they really are. I have not done anything specific in Trondheim though, as I never ski. I don't know how to, and I am afraid I would just slip and fall.
There's a first time for everything, is it not?
Well, I still didn't try it yet. Maybe in the future I will. Winter is a bit hard here, not because it's cold, but, walking on the ice is challenging for me.
Norwegians have a hard time with that too, you will probably witness a couple of spectacular falls before spring arrives. Anyways, we hope you feel at home here at NTNU, and are looking forward to working with you in the future.