What inspired you to pursue this research topic, and how has your understanding of it evolved throughout your PhD journey?
My interest in this topic originated from my work during my Master thesis, when I worked with additive manufacturing (or 3D-printing) of a Zirconium based metallic glass for biomedical applications. I knew I wanted to continue my work within additive manufacturing of metals for biomedical applications, and working with biodegradable magnesium posed an exciting challenge. Magnesium alloy WE43 is particularly fascinating because of its biodegradability, making it possible to use it for temporary implants. When I started my PhD, I was motivated by the challenge of closing the gap between how the process influences the printed material, and how that is in turn connected to the performance as a possible implant material.
Throughout my PhD journey, I came to realize that process parameters (such as laser power, hatch distance, scan strategy, and build direction) do not just affect print quality but also govern texture, residual stresses, and mechanical anisotropy. I now view additive manufacturing as a powerful tool for microstructure engineering, enabling the tailoring of mechanical performance for biomedical applications.
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 hope my research will serve as a framework for process–structure–property optimization in biodegradable magnesium alloys and other lightweight materials produced by PBF-LB. By clarifying how laser parameters influence grain structure, texture, residual stress, and mechanical properties, the work provides tools for designing components with tailored microstructure and mechanical performance. From an application perspective, this research contributes to the advancement of patient-specific biodegradable implants, where predictable strength and degradation behavior are critical.
How do you hope your research will be used or built upon after your defense — whether in academia, industry, or society at large?
I hope the findings from my work can help explain temperature-dependent properties in these materials and be incorporated into the design of more reliable and more heat-resistant alloys for high-temperature applications, such as aerospace engines. I also hope the methodologies and insights from my research will inspire further studies of other structural features in this class of materials and contribute to the development of advanced materials in both academic and industrial contexts.
What role has SwedNess played in your journey?
SwedNess has played an important role in my doctoral journey by providing a strong academic network and a sense of community. Through courses, conferences and beamline trips, I have had the chance to engage with students and researchers from different institutions and disciplines. These interactions have been some of the best parts of my time as a PhD student.
SwedNess has also offered valuable peer support. Connecting with fellow PhD candidates who share similar challenges and aspirations created an incredibly supporting environment, and I feel I have made friends for life. Being part of SwedNess has made my PhD experience very rewarding. I highly appreciate the opportunities it has provided and look forward to staying connected with the community in the future.
