Shows
Fluent Fiction - ItalianFirenze's Winter Whispers: A Tale of Art and Connection,Fluent Fiction - Italian: Firenze's Winter Whispers: A Tale of Art and Connection, Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-02-06-08-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Il cielo sopra i Giardini di Boboli era di un azzurro pallido, quasi nascosto dalle nuvole invernali.En: The sky above the Giardini di Boboli was a pale blue, almost hidden by winter clouds.It: Aironi d'inverno sorvolavano le siepi addormentate, immobili nel loro elegante riposo.En: Winter herons flew over the dormant...
2026-02-0616 min
CoffeeBreakDownProxima Fusion and the Transition to IndustryAn inspiring conversation with Dr. Francesco Sciortino, co-founder and CEO of Proxima Fusion, which is a start-up company aiming to design and build an optimized stellerator fusion device. Join us as he illuminates the reasoning behind their bold conceptual design and their vision of a sleek optimization stack combining simulation software and hardware manufacturing. He also shares some personal wisdom and stories about moving beyond the scientific domain and into entrepreneurship. For those wishing to learn more about or get involved with Proxima, check out their website: https://www.proximafusion.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy...
2023-11-1346 minCoffeeBreakDownA Novel Data Platform for Plasma PhysicsIn this episode, Daan J. Boer (PhD student at TU Eindhoven) talks about a novel data platform called LXCat-3. The platform is supposed to replace the current version of the well-established LXCat to provide atomic and molecular data, such as electron impact cross sections and measured transport parameters, that are fundamental for the low temperature plasmas (LTP) community. The conversation starts by defining standards for plasma modeling and simulations. We talk about the importance of LXCat for the LTP community and novel approaches for improving this platform. Then, we present the first tutorial of the LXCat-3 platform and we discuss...
2023-10-2956 minCoffeeBreakDownContaining a Star: A Control Problem?This episode features Dr. Simon van Mulders, a recent graduate from École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) who specialized in model-based optimization of tokamak plasma scenarios. After the release of the DeepMind article about using ML models for plasma shape control, a new wave of interest has surged into the development of advanced plasma control algorithms, which take advantage of model-based techniques for plasma state estimation. Join us as we delve into the world of control engineering, the application of plasma physics models within, and its contributions towards the goal of harnessing the power of the sun....
2023-08-2955 minCoffeeBreakDownA Pedestal Worth KeepingThis episode features Dr. Teobaldo Luda, a plasma physicist at IPP Garching who specializes in the modelling of a enigmatic aspect of a high-performance fusion plasma, the plasma pedestal. Join us as he lays out the known facts about this feature, why it is still an open field of research, and his approach to modelling it without the existence of a generalized theory to describe it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-06-2647 minCoffeeBreakDownMachine Learning in Surface ScienceIn this episode, Tobias Gergs (Ruhr University Bochum, Germany) talks about machine learning (ML) in low temperature plasmas. First, we introduce the concepts of ML and deep learning. Then, we give some examples of work on ML for plasma processing applications focusing on plasma sputtering and deposition. At the end of the episode, we discuss about the role of ML for plasma science and give some suggestions for students and researchers interested on these topics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-06-0554 minCoffeeBreakDownExperiences from Women in ScienceThis episode brings on two PhD students from the DIFFER institute, Maria Morbey and Laura Fumagalli, who have taken a brave step in agreeing to openly share their experiences about being women in the (currently) largely male-dominated field of STEM research. This represents our effort to bring more honest conversations in the realm of gender disparity within the scientific field, with the intent of constructively discussing these potentially controversial topics with the nuance they deserve. We hope that this conversation proves enlightening to all researchers and encourage any and all to contribute via comments and feedback, especially as the future...
2023-05-111h 27CoffeeBreakDownAccelerating Fusion with Machine LearningThis episode features Lorenzo Zanisi, a data scientist working at the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) to apply machine learning models to accelerate fusion computations. Our conversation covers some brief introduction to the concepts of machine learning (ML), its distinction from artificial intelligence (AI) and traditional statistical modelling, and finally some examples of how it is being / could be applied to accelerate fusion science. With the emergence of more and more powerful ML models, we both envision this topic becoming more and more prevalent in the coming decade Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more...
2023-03-291h 10CoffeeBreakDownThe Outer Rim of the PlasmaIn this episode, we talk about turbulent transport in tokamak boundaries with Dr. Maurizio Giacomin (University of York, UK). We introduce the main equations, assumptions, and numerical methods that are used to describe transport in tokamaks boundaries. Furthermore, a novel theory-based density scaling law is explained and its importance for design of future machines is discussed. At the end of the episode, we share our opinions on teaching and student supervisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-03-151h 11CoffeeBreakDownPlasmas as Flagship Technology for DecarbonizationIn this episode, Professor Vasco Guerra (IST Lisbon, Portugal) gives an overview of the different plasma technologies for conversion of carbon dioxide and nitrogen into chemicals and fuels and he explains the role of plasmas for a decarbonized economy. Plasmas have been studied since decades. The game changer is the drop in price of renewable electricity that makes this technology attractive for future energy infrastructures. New applications of plasmas are discussed for the conversion of carbon dioxide into liquid fuels for aviation and road transportation, and the fixation of nitrogen for sustainable fertilizers production in agriculture.
2023-02-011h 02CoffeeBreakDownFinale Season 1 and AnnouncementsWe wrap up some considerations from the first Season of this Podcast and we have some announcements for the next Season. Stay tuned in 2023 for new epsodes on fusion and plasma science! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-12-3021 minCoffeeBreakDownWhat can FuseNet do for you?Our guest this episode is Darío Cruz, the Executive Officer of the FuseNet organization. He explains the mission and activities of FuseNet, it's role in the field of fusion, and shares his opinions on the education efforts on fusion science and engineering within Europe. Tune in for a dynamic discussion filled with insights into the broadness of the fusion field and the opportunities available to get involved! Also, excuse me for my nasally voice. I'm still recovering from a bit of a cold.Useful links:FuseNet fusion communication video: https://www.youtube.com/w...
2022-11-3054 minCoffeeBreakDownShould you do a PhD in Physics?A lively chat with Dr. Alex Fontana about career developments and reserch. Alex studied physics in Padua (Italy) and then he moved to Lyon (France) for a PhD in experimental physics. In this episode, Alex shares with us some tips for career developments and his experiences switching from theoretical to experimental physics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-11-0148 minCoffeeBreakDownSwitching Gears From Laboratory to MarketThis episode features Prof. dr. Niek Lopes Cardozo, a prominent fusion researcher at the Eindhoven University of Technology and a former vice-chair of European Domestic Agency of ITER. We embark on a communicative journey around the transition of fusion science into a productive technology and probe further into its potential place in the global economy. Tune in to discover more about the pragmatic ups and downs surrounding the challenges of realizing a fusion power plant, and hopefully walk away able to make a more informed decision on the current hype. This episode matches the errata version on our YouTube channel.
2022-10-251h 07CoffeeBreakDownThoughts on Theory and TurbulenceOur guest today, Paul Mulholland, is a PhD candidate at the Eindhoven University of Technology, studying fusion plasma turbulence from a theoretical and modelling standpoint. His background in theoretical physics provides him a deeper understanding of the turbulent plasma phenomena, which we cover on a more intuitive level. Also, he provides an insightful opinion and discussion on the interplay between the theoretical and experimental halves of science. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-09-2356 minCoffeeBreakDownPlasma jets and model validationOur guest today is Dr. Pedro Viegas, currently postdoctoral researcher at the University of Lisbon. With Pedro, we explore recent advancements in the field of plasma jets and interaction with surfaces. Plasma jets are nowadays used for medicine and surface functionalization. In this episode, Pedro points out the main challenges and future developments for this application. Why do we need advancements in plasma model? And how to accurately describe the interaction of plasma with surfaces? We discuss about these topics (and more) in this episode... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-09-0540 minCoffeeBreakDownFlows and FrictionOur guest today, Chris Orrico, is a Master student finishing up his thesis at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Netherlands. Arriving to the fusion field from a more engineering background, he discusses both the technical and personal challenges he faced through his project. He imparts a few words of wisdom and guidance for those seeking to follow a similar path. The discussion wraps up with a summary of his brief experience regarding the socioeconomics of fusion.The fusion economics article - it is unfortunately behind a paywall but provided nonetheless: https://www...
2022-08-2246 minCoffeeBreakDownNeuromorphic computing: materials and fabricationRouven Lamprecht, PhD student at Kiel University (Germany), talks about the topic of his research that is about neuromorphic hardware. As a difference with standard CMOS technology, this hardware draws inspiration from biological principles. In this episode, Rouven introduces the concepts of bio-inspired computation and memristive devices. He also tells us about the interesting parts and challenges of his research. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-08-0821 minCoffeeBreakDownA Glimpse at a Bright FutureThis episode takes a brand-new turn for us at CoffeeBreakDown, going live on location at the FuseNet PhD Event in Padua, Italy. We feature 11 talented and enthusiastic PhD students from all around Europe! They share a little bit about their work, along with the myriad of whys and hows regarding their choice to pursue fusion science and engineering. Tune in and see if they can inspire you as well!This episode was designed to be placed on YouTube with video. If you get lost on who is talking at any given time, be sure to check...
2022-07-2218 minCoffeeBreakDownDivertor Design DivergenceAs a compliment to our previous episode on experimental edge plasma research, we bring on Dr. Jorge González on this episode to discuss approaches to these research topics from a modelling perspective. He shares his experiences with modelling the extremely intricate processes involved in the edge plasma region and plasma-surface interaction within the linear device, MAGNUM-PSI, and its relevance to tokamak devices. We also touch upon the symbiotic relationship between computer simulations and physical experiments within scientific endeavours. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-06-2152 minCoffeeBreakDownHow To Become a Fusion Scientist?A lively chat with Dr. Renato Perillo, a postdoctoral researcher in fusion science at the University of California San Diego. We discuss about current and future challenges in fusion research, including particle transport, instabilities, and power exhaust. Renato shares with us his experience and suggestions on how to pursue a career in fusion science. This topic can be very interesting also for younger students who want to pursue a career in the same field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-06-071h 01CoffeeBreakDownIgnition Computing: Specialized Software SolutionsA chat with Dr. Daan van Vugt, founder of Ignition Computing, about the culture of open-source software, from both professional and personal viewpoints. Ignition Computing is a recent startup company, which boasts among its roles a contract by the ITER Organization to assist in software- and computer modelling-related solutions.More information about open-source software licenses: https://opensource.org/licensesMore information about Ignition Computing: https://ignitioncomputing.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-05-2352 minCoffeeBreakDownPlasma Technology for Sustainability in Chemical IndustryWe talk about sustainability and green energy with Prof. Thomas Butterworth and Tim Righart. Tom and Tim are researchers on plasma technology working at the Brightlands Chemelot Campus in Geleen (the Netherlands). In this episode, we discuss about the Brightsite Plasma Lab as home for fundamental and applied research. Tim and Tom explain us the advantages and challenges in plasma techonolgy for production of green fuels from renewable electricity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-05-0949 minCoffeeBreakDownFusion on the big screenA light-hearted chat with Dr. Ray Chandra and returning guest, Dr. Michele Marin. In this episode, we critique the portrayal of fusion reactors in mainstream science-fiction media, analyzing them based on their attention to the science behind fusion reactors. We set out to grade each depiction individually, leading to some interesting differences and discussions throughout the critique. Be sure to check out the YouTube episode for some helpful visuals!WARNING!!! Potential spoilers for the following movies / series / canons!!!Star Trek, X-Men: Days of Future Past, Passengers, The Expanse, Iron Man, Back to the Future 2
2022-04-251h 23CoffeeBreakDownThe Plasma Exchange Data Project and LXCatA chat with Dr. Jacob Stephens, assistant professor at Texas Tech University (USA), about data management and data sharing for plasma models. In this Episode, we introduce the Plasma Data Exchange Project and, in particular, the LXCat project that provides electron and ion scattering cross sections, swarm parameters, and other data useful for modeling low temperature plasmas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-04-1151 minCoffeeBreakDownStellerators, Stability, and StigmasA dynamic conversation with Dr. Josefine Proll, an expert on sterallator plasma turbulence. We cover some conceptual components of stellerator fusion devices and turbulence optimization. The conversation then shifts towards a critical look at scientific culture, the metrics of judging scientists and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-03-2558 minCoffeeBreakDownWhat's a CoffeeBreakDown anyway?We introduce ourselves and we share our ideas about the CoffeeBreakDown project. * How did we decide to start a YouTube channel? * What is the aim of this project? Share with us your opinion about this video by commenting down below. Or send us an email at: ► aaron.ho@coffeebreakdown.eu ► luca.vialetto@coffeebreakdown.eu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-03-1152 minCoffeeBreakDownFundamentals versus Applications in Low Temperature Plasmas* What is the future of plasma research? * Is research driven by fundamental science or applications? With discuss about these topics (and much more) in a lively conversation with host Luca and guests Tiago Dias and Maik Budde. Tiago and Maik are PhD students at the Instituto Superior Técnico (Lisbon) working on low temperature plasma modelling and diagnostics. Maik and Tiago share also with us their experience and interests as PhD students investigating plasmas for industrial applications. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-02-2543 minCoffeeBreakDownCommunication stylesA lively conversation about science communication with guests, Ekaterina Matveeva and Tobias Jesche, the hosts of technical presentation platform about fusion science and technology platform, Fusion-EP Talks. We discuss their experiences of starting a new science communication platform and some of their motivation for doing so. They also graciously share the lessons and stories accumulated along their way for everyone's benefit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-02-1158 minCoffeeBreakDownPlasma chemistry: science and applicationsNew episode with host Luca and guest Prof. Savino Longo. Savino is full professor of chemistry at the University of Bari (Italy) and he is expert of computer models for plasma physics and chemistry. The episode starts by introducing low temperature plasma science. Then, Savino guides us through some of the applications that exploits plasma technology for enabling a future based on electricity. Other fields, such as astrobiology and astrochemistry, are also presented. The episode ends with a discussion on the importance of science communication. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-01-2853 minCoffeeBreakDownHow's working at CERN?The fourth episode of our podcast, with host Luca and guest Giovanni Mocellin. Giovanni recently obtained his PhD on particle physics at Aachen university (Germany) spending part of the time doing research at CERN in Geneva.The discussion starts off by introducing the concept of elementary particles. Then, Giovanni guides us through the wonders of CERN laboratories and the importance of fundamental research. The discussion ends with some considerations on the role of scientific communication. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2022-01-121h 00CoffeeBreakDownBut Are You Listening?Our third pilot podcast, with host Aaron and guest Marion Smedberg. Marion just successfully completed her Master's studies concerning statistical database analysis of plasma turbulent transport simulations. The conversation starts off with a discussion about receiving and giving proper feedback, a continuation of previous offline conversations that we have had. From there, it briefly touches many peripheral aspects of scientific life, most notably the publishing culture and the lack of formal communication training within the scientific track.Links:FuseNet website: https://fusenet.eu/Plasmasurf IPFN: http://plasmasurf.tecnico.ulisboa.pt/
2021-12-2753 minCoffeeBreakDownTrials and ErrorsOur second pilot episode, with host Aaron and guest Ralf Mackenbach. Ralf is currently in the second year of his PhD studies in fusion plasma device optimization, specifically attempting to minimize turbulence in stellerators. The conversation starts off with a bit about fusion plasmas, goes into the overview of Ralf's work so far, and finishes with some concerns about the state of scientific communication between scientists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2021-12-1259 min
CoffeeBreakDownParticles, Predictions, and PandemicOur first pilot podcast, with host Aaron and guest Michele Marin. Michele is currently finishing up his PhD thesis in tokamak fusion plasma simulations, specializing in particle transport physics. The conversation starts off with a bit about fusion plasmas, goes into the overview of Michele's PhD studies, moves into opinions on fusion plasma simulations, and finishes with some light banter about this scientific work environment of 2020 / 2021. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2021-11-2854 min