Scientists and scholars from all over the world keep coming to Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg thanks to an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship. With its research fellowship, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation supports postdocs and experienced scientists of all disciplines in their research projects in Germany. A fellowship from the Foundation is considered a high honor for both the recipient and the host. Currently, Prof. Dr. Claus-Dieter Ohl, from the Institute of Physics, is hosting Prof. Dr. Seyed Mohammad Taghavi, a full professor and holder of the Canada Research Chair in Modeling Complex Flows at Université Laval, Quebec, Canada. Lisa Baaske spoke with the Humboldt Fellow about his research, his goals about Magdeburg and what it means to him to be a Humboldtian.
Where are you from? What did you study? Where did you study? What have you done so far?
I am originally from Iran, where I began my academic journey in chemical engineering. After completing my early studies there, I moved to Canada to pursue my PhD at the University of British Columbia (UBC), focusing on fluid dynamics and complex flows. Following my PhD, I gained invaluable research experience through postdoctoral positions at UBC, the University of Michigan, and McGill University, where I was honored to hold a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship. Each of these roles deepened my expertise in various areas of fluid mechanics and exposed me to unique research environments.
My research interests revolve around rheology, complex flows, fluid mechanics, interfacial flows, hydrodynamic stability, and non-Newtonian fluid mechanics. These interconnected areas are crucial for understanding complex systems, with applications ranging from industrial processes to biomedical technologies.
In addition to the Humboldt Fellowship for Experienced Researchers, I am humbled and grateful to have received support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and other Canadian organizations. These opportunities have allowed me to contribute to impactful research addressing key challenges in fluid mechanics. To date, I have co-authored over 100 journal articles in leading peer-reviewed journals, advancing knowledge in various aspects of fluid flow. Currently, I am privileged to serve as the co-chair of the NSERC Discovery Grant evaluation panel for the Materials and Chemical Engineering Group, where I work to support and assess innovative research in this evolving field.
How did you end up at the University of Magdeburg - in Professor Ohl's research group?
My path to the University of Magdeburg and Professor Claus-Dieter Ohl’s research group came through a shared passion for fluid dynamics, specifically in the areas of bubble dynamics, jet formation, and interfacial flows. Professor Ohl is a highly respected figure in the field, known for his pioneering work in experimental fluid mechanics and bubble dynamics, which has significantly advanced our understanding of these complex systems. His innovative approach to exploring fluid behaviors at the micro and macro scales aligns well with my own research interests, making his lab an ideal place to conduct collaborative research.
With the support of the Humboldt Fellowship, I was fortunate to join Professor Ohl’s group and work alongside a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of fluid dynamics research. Working with Professor Ohl is not only an intellectually enriching experience but also an opportunity to learn from one of the best in our field. His mentorship and insight into experimental techniques have been invaluable in expanding my own perspectives and skills, particularly as they relate to bubble dynamics and the formation of high-speed jets. This collaboration has allowed us to tackle shared challenges and explore potential applications in fields like needle-free injection technology, which stands to benefit greatly from our combined expertise.
What does it mean to you to be part of the Humboldt family?
Being part of the Humboldt family is a significant honor and privilege. It opens up a vast network of researchers across disciplines, fostering an environment of collaboration and exchange. This fellowship has provided a platform to work internationally and to contribute to a community that values scientific innovation and cross-border research.
How would you explain your research to a layperson?
My research focuses on understanding how fluids behave under certain conditions, such as when they interact with surfaces or when subjected to pressure. For instance, imagine a droplet that transforms into a high-speed jet, like a tiny needle-free injection system. By studying this, we can create more efficient and less invasive ways to deliver medications, among many other applications.
What benefit does your research have for mankind?
The potential applications of my research are diverse, spanning from healthcare to environmental sustainability. In healthcare, understanding fluid behaviors at micro and macro scales can lead to advances in drug delivery systems, such as needle-free injections, making treatments less painful and more accessible. Additionally, in industries like aluminum production, improving fluid management can lead to more efficient and sustainable processes.
What do you find exciting about your field of research?
The field of fluid dynamics is endlessly fascinating because it combines fundamental physics with real-world applications. Every experiment or model can reveal something new about how substances interact, whether in a lab setting or in industrial applications. This constant discovery and potential for practical impact keep me deeply engaged.
Why are you doing research in this area?
I am driven by the challenge of understanding complex systems and by the potential impact this research can have. Fluid dynamics is at the heart of so many critical processes, and I find it rewarding to contribute knowledge that can benefit various fields, from medical technology to environmental engineering.
What do you want to achieve?
My goal is to develop deeper insights into fluid behaviors and to create models that can be applied in practical settings, improving industrial processes and advancing medical applications. I hope that my work will contribute to innovations that are both sustainable and impactful.
What benefits do you hope to gain for your own career from your research in Professor Ohl's group?
Working with Professor Ohl's group allows me to explore new experimental techniques and collaborate with experts in bubble dynamics. This experience enriches my understanding and broadens my perspective, which I hope will lead to new research avenues and strengthen my work at Université Laval.
What do you like about the university so far?
The University of Magdeburg has a vibrant academic atmosphere, and I’ve enjoyed the collaborative culture here. The facilities and support for research are excellent, making it a productive environment for scientific exploration.
How do you like Magdeburg? Are you planning a stay in Magdeburg?
Magdeburg is a charming city with a rich history, and I’ve appreciated the warm welcome from both the academic and local communities. While I am here for a relatively short time, I would be open to future collaborations that might bring me back to this city.