At MEMSYS, we talk about innovation, collaboration and pushing the limits. None of that happens without the incredible minds and energy driving it all forward. So, we are doing a series of interviews and handing the mic to our team.
These interviews are a window into the people behind the projects – their passions, perspectives and what fuels them everyday at MEMSYS.
Get ready to meet the talent and see why teamwork makes the dreamwork !
Today the floor is to Laura Graziosi, Mechanical Engineer Intern.
Hi Laura, tell us a little bit about your background
I grew up in The Hague and after my graduation, I moved to the US to attend Syracuse University. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering while playing Division I field hockey, which was an amazing experience. Afterward, I started my master’s in High-Tech Engineering at Delft University of Technology. I was really happy that even though I didn’t do my bachelors there, I was able to pursue my master’s at TU Delft.
What prompted you to pursue this field?
When I was looking for a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, what really drew me to High-Tech Engineering was its focus on pushing the boundaries of existing technologies. It’s about creating something that hasn’t been done before, which I find really exciting. While I’m not so interested in micro- or nano- technology, I love the idea of innovating and pushing the limits of what we know, which is what attracted me to this field.
What motivated you to apply to MEMSYS?
I wanted to gain more practical experience beyond just research, and I thought MEMSYS would be a great fit. The main reason I applied is because I think what MEMSYS is doing with energy harvesting is really cool. It’s sustainable, and I’ve always been concerned about the environment. As an engineer, I think the best way to make a meaningful impact is to create something that can affect the world on a larger scale.
What does a typical day look like for you here at MEMSYS?
My role here is focused on research. I’m looking into existing work on energy harvesting, understanding the different types, and how they can be applied. At the same time, I’m working on building prototypes to get hands-on experience with the manufacturing side of things. There’s only so much you can learn from reading articles, so actually building and testing things give me a deeper understanding of the process.
What do you like about being part of MEMSYS?
It’s a great environment- an energetic and motivated group of young people. Everyone here is excited about what they do, and we all want to make a difference and build something together. Besides that, being part of YES!Delft is fantastic because there are so many facilities available. If you want to 3D print something, build a prototype, or ask someone for advice, it’s easy to walk up to someone or head down to the lab. This kind of accessibility helps me learn and grow quickly.
What role do you think energy harvesting will play in the future?
I think energy harvesting had huge potential, but it needs a lot more research and development to reach its full capacity. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but it will contribute to a more sustainable future, which is something we really need to focus on given the state of the world today.
