A Fusion of Experience: My Internship at the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics in
Greifswald, Germany
During the spring of 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to complete a 10-week internship at
the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP) in Greifswald, Germany, supported by funding
from FuseNet. As part of my double degree in Nuclear Fusion and Applied Physics, my work was
centered on improving the understanding of thermal effects related to Electron Cyclotron
Resonance Heating (ECRH) in the Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) stellarator, one of the most advanced
fusion research facilities in the world.
The project aimed to analyse the thermal impact of O2-mode ECRH beams on internal reactor
components, specifically a copper-stainless steel grid located behind protective wall tiles.
While X2-mode microwave heating is almost fully absorbed in the plasma, O2-mode leaves up
to 30% of the energy unabsorbed, which can result in excessive localized heating. My research
combined ray-tracing simulations (via TRAVIS), infrared thermography, and laboratory
experiments in vacuum conditions to determine the emissivity of the grid material and reliably
estimate its maximum temperatures during plasma operations.
Beyond the scientific achievements, my time in Greifswald was also culturally enriching. I
explored the picturesque island of Rügen, visited the historic rocket development site in
Peenemünde, and immersed myself in the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin. These excursions
offered a perfect balance to the intense research environment and allowed me to appreciate the
region’s history and beauty.
This internship was a transformative experience. I significantly deepened my understanding of
fusion physics, experimental diagnostics, and scientific methodology. I would highly
recommend a similar internship to any student interested in fusion research. I am immensely
grateful to my supervisors at IPP and TU Eindhoven for their guidance and to FuseNet for their
financial support, which made this journey possible.
