Functional materials

Eric Lindgen’s PhD Story

What inspired you to pursue this research topic, and how has your understanding of it evolved throughout your PhD journey?

I have been passionate about machine learning and software development for a long time, and this research topic was the perfect opportunity for me to apply my interests and skills on the interesting challenging of bridging simulations with experiments. In particular, I have enjoyed being part of the neutron scattering community and the SwedNess graduate school, which has taught me the beauty of neutrons and the opportunities they present.

Can you describe a key finding or insight from your research that you’re especially proud of—and why it matters in your field?

I am most proud of the software packages and workflows for training AI models, running simulations with them, and connecting simulations to neutron experiments that I have helped develop as my PhD project. These lower the barrier for entry for researchers to get started running their own simulations, even those that might not have a lot of simulations experience. These workflows could also potentially be integrated in the standard software analysis at neutron scattering facilities, which could enable prediction of experiments and enable deeper analysis of experimental results.

How do you hope your research will be used or built upon after your defense—whether in academia, industry, or society at large?

I believe that the simulation workflows I have worked on will continue to mature, both in terms of how accurately they can be used to simulate neutron scattering experiments, but also in their ease of use. My hope is that this will enable more researchers to integrate simulations in their research toolbox.

What role has SwedNess played in your journey?

SwedNess has been central to my PhD journey, by fostering not only my interest in neutron scattering but also providing a professional network within the Swedish neutron scattering community. I have also made a lot of personal friends thanks to SwedNess, which has made my PhD journey much more enjoyable.

What’s next for you? Where is your journey taking you after the defense?

I will continue as a post-doc at Chalmers throughout the autumn, whilst pursuing on my own start-up on the side. Depending on how that goes, I will then see if I continue into industry or not, but regardless, I want to retain a strong connection to academia and research. 

Thesis: Through Rainbow-Tinted Glasses: Machine Learning-Driven Modeling of Chromophores