Research at Columbia

Visiting Student Experience - Written by Aslı Birtürk

1. Can you give us a brief overview of your academic background?

My journey in renewable energy began with a full scholarship at the Department of Energy Systems Engineering, Beykent University, where I actively participated in the IEEE Student Branch and founded the IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) Society. This involvement enriched my academic and industry networks. I initially explored solar energy by designing a solar-powered backpack and off-grid photovoltaic systems. Pursuing a master's degree at Ege University Solar Energy Institute, I focused on solar-powered mechanical ventilation systems. Now, as a Ph.D. candidate, my research centers on developing an environmentally conscious process for photovoltaic (PV) module recycling. Currently, I am a visiting scholar at Columbia University, Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering, conducting research for my doctoral dissertation.

2. What motivated you to apply for the visiting student program at this university?

Considering the growing importance of PV module recycling as a global sustainability issue, the insightful direction of my PhD supervisor, Prof. M. Soner Celiktas, gave me the courage and motivation to enrich my thesis work through collaboration with experienced academics abroad. These reasons led me to reach out to Prof. Vasilis Fthenakis, whose research I have been following for years.

Additionally, Columbia University, one of the eight Ivy League schools, has a high ranking of 11th in the 2023 THE World University Rankings and is eligible -for TÜBİTAK 2214-A - International Research Fellowship Program, which further strengthened my motivation to apply.

3. How did you choose your host university?

Prof. Fthenakis has published studies in PV recycling for over 20 years, which sparked my interest in this area while I was pursuing my master's degree. Therefore, working with him has been a dream come true. I also identified all researchers who are prominent in the literature on PV recycling methods and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). I filtered researchers working at institutions ranked in the top 100 of THE World University Rankings. There are many esteemed researchers who have made significant contributions to PV recycling research!

4. Can you describe your current research project? What are its main objectives and significance?

Photovoltaic panels are known as a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly sustainable alternative compared to fossil energy sources. As one of the fastestgrowing renewable energy sources, they present an emerging environmental challenge that needs to be addressed. The issue of end-of-life management for photovoltaic panels, which become waste prematurely due to functional loss, has become a significant concern. My thesis aims to address this issue by developing innovative methods for delamination processes on crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules to achieve high rates of delamination. Through successful laboratorylevel results, my research focuses on advancing these novel PV delamination methods and conducting environmental analyses as part of my visiting doctoral program.

5. How has the research environment at the host university influenced your work?

Columbia University has a longstanding tradition of esteemed education. The international environment fostered by fellow graduate students and academics has enriched my perspective on my work.

The university's extensive range of resources for academic research and community support, particularly within the engineering faculty where I am based, has heightened my interest in the diversity of research conducted there.

Especially, Butler Library will remain one of the most impressive places for me at Columbia University. To be honest, it's impossible not to be impressed by such a successful university! The campus has a magical atmosphere that makes you feel like you're in a movie.

6. If you were to liken the research process to a song or a movie, what would your answer be?

Coming to live in New York City alone to conduct research at Columbia University was definitely something I wished for, but once it became a reality, I understood how challenging life in this city could be. That's why my answer is "Home Alone 2" given Kevin's wish to spend New Year's alone somewhere else, blaming his parents, only to find himself in New York City by mistake and experiencing various incidents while his wish comes true!

Additionally, "Still Alice," which tells the compelling story of an academic at Columbia University, inspired me years ago. For my evolving thoughts on what to prioritize and what not to prioritize, another answer of mine is "Still Alice"!

I wouldn't want to pass this question without mentioning "The Trial of the Chicago 7" for its portrayal of the intense protest atmosphere and surprising interventions that had a significant impact on campus during a noteworthy part of my research period.

7. What resources and facilities have you found particularly helpful at the host institution?

During my time at the host institution, I have found several resources and facilities particularly helpful for my research and overall experience. One of the most beneficial aspects has been the orientation program provided for visiting researchers. This program helped me quickly acclimate to the new environment and provided essential information about the university's resources and services. I also had the opportunity to participate in various academic events, which have enriched my research and provided valuable networking opportunities. The university's extensive library resources, including access to a vast array of academic journals and databases, have greatly supported my literature review and data analysis processes. Moreover, Columbia University provides a special evening transportation service to ensure the safety of students and researchers working late on campus. This service offers a secure ride home for those staying late, which has been extremely helpful for me, allowing me to focus on my work without worrying about safety concerns.

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Challenges/Gains

8. Can you share some of the challenges you've faced during your time as a visiting student and how you overcame them?

As a visiting student, I encountered several challenges that tested my adaptability. Initially, I was informed that access to Columbia University libraries wouldn't be granted for my research. Recognizing this as a misunderstanding in my first month, I promptly clarified the situation with my department and simultaneously contacted the International Students Office. Through coordinated efforts and an online request, I got full library access for the remaining 5 months.

During my time on campus, there were occasional student protests related to the Palestine-Israel conflict. Allegations of unequal treatment of Palestinian and Israeli students by university administration led to the university president giving a testimony in Washington, D.C., where she affirmed allegations of antisemitism on campus during a live broadcast. This situation led to severe protests lasting several weeks, the NYPD intervened in the protests by students after which academic activities were restricted for a period by the university administration. However, with online meetings with my research advisor, we could manage this situation and continue our academic discussions. I approached this situation with the intention of focusing on the details of my research and shaping the publication of my studies.

Also, due to a minor health issue faced by my research advisor, we were unable to meet in person for a while. Nevertheless, we effectively handled this through emails and online discussions, continuing our work on academic paper preparations.

9. What have been the most rewarding aspects of your experience so far?

One of the most rewarding aspects has been confronting the reality that academic research demands a great deal of patience and learning to manage moments of panic more effectively compared to before. Learning this in a completely different country and continent has provided me with a skill that extends beyond narrow confines, contributing universally.

10. How has this experience impacted your academic and professional goals?

This experience has allowed me to realize that I don't have to make decisions and progress within limited ideas. It has shown me that professional goals can take countless forms.

11. Have you had the opportunity to collaborate with other researchers, or participate in any seminars/workshops? If so, how has this benefited your research?

I have had the opportunity to participate in several valuable events. I was accepted to present an oral presentation as a new member of society at the ASES SOLAR 2024 conference organized by the American Solar Energy Society at George Washington University in Washington, DC from May 20-23, 2024.

I also participated in the Columbia University Annual ESG & Sustainability Global Summit 2024 on April 7, 2024 at the historical Low Library which is a magical building!

Additionally, I attended the Global New York Career Fair organized by the Turkish Students Association on April 13, 2024 at the Turkish House. Each of these events provided me with the opportunity to establish numerous networks and gain diverse perspectives, which have greatly benefited my research.

12. What differences have you noticed between the academic culture at your home and host university?

The most striking aspect of Columbia University for me has been the high motivation among students, fostered by the extensive university resources. Campus activities, largely driven by undergraduate students, make Columbia University a richer place in terms of both social and academic engagement. However, I observed fewer social interactions in the graduate study environments, particularly in the Engineering Faculty where a quiet atmosphere predominated. I think this might limit academic discussions to scheduled meetings and classes.

In contrast, my home institution, Ege University Solar Energy Institute, not only promotes structured academic discussions but also fosters a socially vibrant academic environment.

Overall, Columbia University stands out as a richer place in terms of both social and academic activities, while my home institution excels in fostering a diverse and socially engaging academic discourse alongside structured academic environments.

13. What advice would you give to other PhD students considering a visiting student program?

Firstly, I recommend they ensure that their academic advisor at the host institution is as enthusiastic about their research as they are. It is strongly advised to thoroughly check all the facilities and resources provided by the host institution and confirm the access rights they will have as visiting students. If they are going with a research scholarship, I suggest they carefully analyze the cost of living in the city they will be visiting before making a decision.