Breaking Boundaries S1-Episode1: Interview with Carina Udera

14.05.2025 | 

Interview with Carina Udrea

The FAIR/GSI GET_INvolved mobility programme welcomes students from around the globe each year—whether for internships, Erasmus+ stays, or research projects. Participants come from shareholder and partner countries with diverse backgrounds, age groups, and stories. On this occasion, we had the opportunity to sit down with Carina Udera from Romania, a PhD physics student at TU Darmstadt, and gain some insightful reflections on her journey. Interview taken and edited by Arianna Agnesa from International Cooperations.

1. Hello Carina, what’s your educational background?

I pursued my bachelor's degree at the Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, Romania. While enrolled in my master's studies, I worked as a Junior Researcher at the JINR Institute in Dubna for two years. I am now a PhD student at TU Darmstadt.

2. What inspired you to pursue a career in the STEM field?

Initially, I was drawn to physics because I found it challenging—I tend to pursue things that push me outside my comfort zone. Over time, however, I developed a genuine passion for the field. It has allowed me to feel connected to something much deeper. Ultimately, what drives me forward is my unwavering curiosity and the constant quest for understanding.

3. Can you tell us about the moment you decided to do a PhD — was there a turning point, and why?

For me, it felt natural to continue my studies and pursue a PhD. I initially started my PhD in Romania, working on the NICA experiment at JINR. A few months into my time there, the Russian-Ukrainian war began, and I found myself trying to return to Europe, uncertain about my future. Given my position at the time, there was significant uncertainty about whether I would be accepted back, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.

Germany seemed like the perfect place for me, and discovering Prof. Tetyana Galatyuk's research group was truly life-changing. I joined the group through the GET_INvolved programme, for which I am very grateful, and spent eight months immersed in its dynamic and supportive environment. During this time, I realized how strongly I wanted to continue being part of the group.

Prof. Galatyuk is an outstanding researcher, leader, and person. Shortly after completing the programme, I officially began my PhD studies and successfully secured accommodation, marking the start of an exciting new chapter.

4. What does a typical day look like for you as a PhD student here?

Hmm... I really enjoy it when we’re preparing for a conference—everyone’s buzzing like bees with last-minute touches and spontaneous physics discussions. And during beam time, seeing the entire team working together toward one goal is truly inspiring. Generally, I spend time working on my code and having great conversations with my colleagues. It’s a very enriching experience.

5. What kind of support do you receive—from supervisors, the institute, or peers?

I’m very grateful for the support I receive from my supervisor, colleagues, and friends. We’re able to talk about physics and personal life in a healthy, balanced, and fulfilling way.

6. What’s the atmosphere like among researchers and students at FAIR/GSI?

The senior researchers are highly engaged and genuinely open to our perspectives, fostering an environment where active listening and constructive dialogue are encouraged. There’s a strong culture of mutual support, and collaboration comes naturally. We speak openly about our analyses, receive valuable input, and engage in meaningful discussions. The students are well-prepared and always ready to help one another. It feels like being part of a large, supportive family—where both personal growth and scientific development are nurtured.

7. What is the most exciting or meaningful project you’ve worked on here?

I find every aspect of my work both exciting and meaningful. I enjoy my subject, and the challenge of bringing my project to completion is both motivating and intellectually stimulating. Naturally, at the beginning, I didn’t fully grasp the scope of what I was doing, but step by step, I’ve gained a clearer understanding of the broader context and implications. This evolving perspective keeps me deeply engaged and committed to the process.

8. Can you share any cool or unexpected aspect of working in such a high-tech, international environment?

There’s something deeply inspiring about being part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what we know about the universe.

9. What would you say to someone considering a PhD, Erasmus+, or internship experience here?

You not only get the chance to dive into world-class research but also experience personal growth as you navigate life independently—bureaucracy included (which is almost a rite of passage here!). Being surrounded by passionate and brilliant researchers creates a stimulating environment that constantly pushes you to learn and evolve. And beyond academia, Germany is a great place to live—rich in culture, efficient, and full of hidden gems to explore.

10. Are there any language or cultural challenges, and how have you managed them?

I’m currently learning German, and my colleagues have been incredibly patient and supportive. While we primarily communicate in English, they actively encourage me to improve my German, which I really appreciate. Cultural differences have been a positive experience overall—I enjoy the sense of order, the structured way things are done, and especially the value placed on a healthy work-life balance.

11. How has this PhD experience helped you grow professionally and personally?

Being part of this group has made my life infinitely easier while keeping my curiosity ablaze. I can freely exchange ideas about my project with colleagues, travel to conferences to present my work, and trade insights with world-class researchers—opportunities that constantly broaden my perspective.

Living abroad adds another, more intimate layer to the journey. There are moments when you feel suspended between worlds—no longer fully anchored to the news and rhythms of home, yet still a newcomer in your adopted country. But that in-between space becomes a catalyst for growth. You learn to rely on yourself, to discover who you are when the familiar markers fall away. Over time, the feeling of “home” shifts from a place to something you carry inside. And wherever you stand—lab corridor, conference hall, or quiet city street—you recognize it. That realization brings a quiet confidence and a sense of belonging that travels with you.

12. Do you feel like working at FAIR/GSI opens up unique career opportunities?

Yes, yes, yes!

13. What skills (technical or soft) have you developed that you didn’t expect?

During my time here, I significantly improved my coding skills, and my soft skills have also grown thanks to the excellent support provided by the HGS-HIRe doctoral school. Their training programmes are well-structured and truly beneficial for professional development. One key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of delivering clear and engaging presentations. No matter how strong your research is, being able to communicate it effectively is essential to ensure your audience understands and values your work.

14. What do you love most about working or studying at FAIR/GSI?

What I truly enjoy about the institute is its international atmosphere—you constantly meet people from different backgrounds, which creates a rich and inspiring cultural exchange. The researchers here are not only highly skilled but also deeply engaged in their work, creating a dynamic and motivating environment.

15. How would you describe the mission or values of FAIR/GSI to someone unfamiliar?

Our goal is to explore nature at its deepest levels—to understand it more fully and push the boundaries of current knowledge. In this pursuit, we develop new detector technologies that often find applications beyond fundamental research, contributing to advancements that can improve everyday life. I also value the institute's commitment to a healthy work-life balance. It’s a place where curiosity is nurtured, and students are encouraged to grow not only scientifically but also personally.

16. What’s it like living in Darmstadt as a young doctoral researcher?

I personally chose to live a bit outside of Darmstadt, as I enjoy quieter weekends to unwind after a busy week. Still, Darmstadt has a lot to offer—it’s a vibrant, welcoming city with a great atmosphere. And if you’re ever there, a visit to the Ratskeller is definitely a must!

17. Any favorite places, activities, or tips for newcomers to the city or the institute?

You can check out our JOOLA Band for a lively kickoff session and enjoy some great music with us. If you're looking for something more relaxed, visit the beer gardens whenever the sun is out or take a bike ride through the beautiful forests. For a bit more excitement, Frankfurt is always just a short trip away, offering plenty of fun.

This was Carina's story—but it could also be yours. GET_INvolved with FAIR and enrich your research journey!

Background: Carina Udera, like many other early-career researchers, benefited from the GET_INvolved Programme through the Sandwich PhD initiative. This programme is designed for international doctoral students who are enrolled at partner institutions outside Germany and seek to undertake a research project at FAIR-GSI. The initiative supports students aiming to contribute to one of the experimental collaborations or to develop specific hard and soft skills as part of their doctoral training within an international research environment. The docotal students are provided with structured mentorship, a stimulating and meaningful research project, and a stipend aligned with scholarship standards, subject to individual conditions and available funding.

More information:

• GET_Involved Programme: https://fair-center.eu/get_involved
• For inquiries, please contact: Dr. Pradeep Ghosh (International Cooperations), via Pradeep.Ghosh(at)fair-center.eu or International-cooperations(at)fair-center.eu