Dorota Czerski
D. Czerski - From SUPSI to Thessaloniki: a journey to discover the new frontiers of geotechnics
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Dorota Czerski is a researcher at the Institute of Earth Sciences (IST) at SUPSI, in the geology department. She chose to go beyond the usual boundaries of her work by traveling to Greece to further her research in geotechnics at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
What were the main criteria that led you to choose the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki for your mobility experience?
Greece, besides being a country with an ancient and fascinating culture, faces complex geological challenges such as earthquakes. Research in the field of soil geotechnics is at the forefront. The Department of Civil Engineering at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki has a highly equipped laboratory, a large research group, and internationally renowned scholars in the field of soil geodynamics and seismic engineering.
What were the main benefits and challenges you encountered during this exchange period with the Greek research group?
Definitely the human relationships: the very warm welcome and the willingness of the research group to collaborate and interact were truly admirable! In addition, the scientific exchange, combined with the region’s excellent culinary tradition, made the mobility experience truly memorable.
One limiting factor was the time available. Geotechnical testing requires complex logistical organization and long waiting periods, two weeks of mobility only allow for observing a small part of the activities.
How do you plan to apply the knowledge and skills you gained during your mobility in your daily work at SUPSI?
In addition to practically applying the knowledge I acquired in the TerraLab geotechnical laboratory at SUPSI, I would like to share my mobility experience by presenting the activities carried out by the Greek research group to SUPSI students and colleagues, especially encouraging the latter to explore potential research synergies.
Would you recommend a similar experience to others working in your field? Why?
Every country faces different geological and environmental challenges; however, the issues in geotechnical research and geosciences in general are often shared. Engaging with researchers from different geographic and academic backgrounds is undoubtedly enriching and stimulating.