Alexandre Guibert, a PhD student in the Department of Structural Engineering in the research group of Professor Alicia Kim, recently received the Best Presentation Award at the FEniCS 2024 Conference for his groundbreaking work on improving the efficiency of battery systems for electric aircraft. His research, which integrates electrochemical, thermal, and fluid dynamics models, demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial in solving complex engineering challenges.

Guibert’s presentation at the FEniCS Conference focused on the integration of multiple disciplines to model complex systems. While his work was initially theoretical, it caught the attention of the audience and judges for its innovative approach and clarity in presenting sophisticated concepts. The award recognized not only the technical depth of his work but also his ability to communicate complex ideas effectively to a diverse audience.

“It was an honor to receive the Best Presentation Award,” Guibert said. “The feedback I received at the conference was invaluable in refining my research. Presenting in front of such a knowledgeable audience was a great experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my work and learn from others.”

The award served as a catalyst for Guibert’s ongoing research. Building on the insights he gained from FEniCS, he added optimization techniques to his electrochemical-thermal-fluid model, which enhanced the efficiency of the battery system. He later presented this refined version at another conference in South Korea, where he continued to receive positive feedback and make important connections.

“The recognition at FEniCS gave me the confidence to take my work to the next level,” Guibert explained. “By incorporating optimization, I was able to iterate on the battery design, making it more efficient. I’m now working on publishing this updated research as part of my thesis.” 

Guibert’s success at FEniCS highlights the importance of collaboration in advancing research. His work involves close cooperation with a material science team, and the exchange of knowledge between their fields led to more efficient solutions for electric aircraft battery systems.

In addition to the technical advancements, Guibert’s experience emphasized the importance of effective communication. He offers advice to students preparing for presentations: “Keep your slides simple, avoid jargon, and focus on the key points. Presenting to a diverse audience means you need to make your research accessible to people outside your immediate field.”

Guibert also credits the Department of Structural Engineering’s interdisciplinary approach for helping him succeed. The department’s emphasis on cross-listed courses in fields like materials science, numerical methods, and optimization has been vital in broadening his knowledge base and supporting his research.

“The department encourages students to take classes outside their specialties,” Guibert said. “That’s been crucial for me, as it’s opened my mind to new ways of thinking and helped me approach my research from different angles.”

With his research continuing to evolve, Guibert is optimistic about its potential impact on sustainable technologies, particularly electric aircraft. Winning the Best Presentation Award at FEniCS is just one of many milestones in his journey, and it highlights the value of interdisciplinary research, effective communication, and collaboration in driving innovation within the engineering field.