Interview with professor Filip

Filip Lenrick

What is your educational background?

"My educational background is in material science, with a particular focus on characterisation and nanotechnology. I began my academic path at Lund University in Sweden. In 2011, I earned a Master of Science in Engineering, specialising in Engineering Nanoscience. My passion for the subject and a desire for deeper knowledge led me to pursue a Ph.D. In 2016, I was awarded a Doctorate in Inorganic Chemistry from the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis at Lund University. My doctoral studies were conducted under the guidance of Prof. Reine Wallenberg. I have also undertaken research projects abroad, including at the French National Centre for Scientific Research and at Aalto University in Finland."

Do you have any experience of working in the industry?

"Absolutely, my experience spans both academic and industrial sectors, which provides me with a blend of perspectives. Between 2005-2006, I served as a metalworker at Profiduct AB in Jönköping, Sweden. Subsequently, from 2006 to 2009, I was a process engineer at GLO AB/Sol Voltaics, which was formerly known as QuNano, based in Lund, Sweden.

In addition to these direct industry roles, my academic journey has constantly intersected with the industrial sector. I've had the privilege of collaborating with numerous leading industry players. Some notable names include Alfa Laval, Tetra Pak, Seco Tools, Sandvik Coromant, Sandvik Mining and Construction Tools, and Gränges. These collaborations allowed me to bridge the gap between academic research and its practical applications, ensuring that the knowledge generated has direct relevance and impact on the industry."

What drew you to a career in academia?

"I was drawn to academia by curiosity and a strong desire to learn. During my doctoral research, I delved deeply into characterising the physical and chemical properties of various materials, such as nitrides, oxides, and carbides. Using advanced techniques like Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Focused Ion Beam (FIB), I prepared and investigated samples that held promising applications in the energy sector. A defining moment in my academic journey was conducting the first in-situ growth experiment using a TEM in Sweden. This pioneering work, achieved through a growth chamber of my own design and construction fitted inside a conventional TEM, led to the first publication of in-situ observations of epitaxially growing crystals of the class In–‘V’ compounds, specifically InAs.

This blend of exploration and innovation enhanced my confidence that academia was the path where I could contribute meaningfully to the scientific community and beyond."

What are your research interests?

"My research interests are multifaceted, but most often related to inorganic materials and their potential applications. For example, material characterisation where I am passionate about understanding the physical and chemical properties of materials. Advanced techniques like electron microscopy, ion microscopy, and X-ray-based techniques have been instrumental in my investigations. Bridging theory and application beyond just understanding materials on a microscopic scale, I am drawn to real-world applications. My collaborations with industries have augmented my perspective, enabling me to tailor my research towards practical and impactful solutions.

My explorations into Vapour Liquid Solid (VLS) and Chemical Vapour Transfer (CVT) techniques, as well as the innovative concept of Gas Actuated Bonding (GAB), underscore my interest in the synthesis of materials with precise properties. I am especially intrigued by materials that hold potential in next-generation energy and processing equipment. I believe in making complex concepts accessible to a wider audience. My work, as recognised by the Anna Sundström Award, not only pushes the boundaries of material science but also endeavours to make this research understandable and relevant to non-specialists. In essence, my research interests lie at the intersection of material science, innovative methodologies, and practical applications, all with an aim to contribute to society."

Could you name some of your most recent publications?

• "Bjerke, A., Lenrick, F., et al, 2023. On chemical interactions between an inclusion engineered stainless steel (316L) and (Ti, Al) N coated tools during turning. Wear, p.205093.
• Makgae, O.A., Lenrick,et al, 2023. Visualising microstructural dynamics of titanium aluminium nitride coatings under variable-temperature oxidation. Applied Surface Science, 618, p.156625.
• Petersson, C.L.M., Lenrick, F. and Ahadi, A., 2022. Molecular dynamics-based characterisation of early oxide in Fe/Cr alloys. Results in Surfaces and Interfaces, 9, p.100087.
• Johansson, J., Bushlya, V., Obitz, C., M'Saoubi, R., Hagström, J. and Lenrick, F., 2022. Influence of sub-surface deformation induced by machining on stress corrosion cracking in lead-free brass. The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 122(7-8), pp. 3171-3181.
• Zhu, L., Al‐Sakeeri, A., Lenrick, F., Darselius Berg, O., Sjödin, P., Zakharov, A.A., Knutsson, A. and Mikkelsen, A., 2022. Surface chemistry and diffusion of trace and alloying elements during in vacuum thermal deoxidation of stainless steel. Surface and Interface Analysis, 54(2), pp.99-108."

Could you describe your course and its key features?

"Join me in the world of advanced Material and Process Selection (MMTN20, 7,5 credits, A). This course offers you an opportunity to delve into a field that demands an interdisciplinary approach, marrying concepts from various engineering domains, including sustainability. After the course, you will be able to flawlessly integrate multiple aspects of engineering to come up with the best material for a specific product or process. Through this course, you'll learn a rigorous methodology that isn't just selection – it's about optimisation. From understanding conception translation, screening, and ranking including mastering material property charts.

The hands-on approach ensures that you're well-equipped to put theory into practice. With the cutting-edge Ansys Granta EduPack software you'll execute advanced material and process selections, critically analyse diverse solutions, and align material-centric outcomes with specific designs. Boasting a comprehensive database, it guides you through considerations whether you're weighing sustainability, mechanical loads, chemical environments, or variables like operating temperatures. In essence, you will go from understanding basics to mastering complexities.

What is your driving force as a teacher?

"My dedication to teaching is steered by several principles and beliefs. Foremost, I am deeply invested in crafting courses that resonate with a sense of coherence and logic. I believe that education, much like a well-written story, should have a structure where each chapter builds upon the previous, allowing students to seamlessly weave together their knowledge.

Honesty forms the bedrock of my teaching philosophy. I am forthright about the limits of my own knowledge. This transparency, in my experience, cultivates an environment of trust. Students often appreciate it when I highlight logical gaps or intricacies and take the time to unpack them. Such moments not only clarify doubts but also foster an atmosphere where questions are celebrated, not shunned. Clarity is paramount. It's vital for students to distinctly grasp what's expected of them, what benchmarks they need to meet, and how they can achieve success. This clarity eliminates ambiguity and paves the way for focused, purposeful learning.

I believe that every course, every lecture, every exercise should be meaningful. Students’ invested time should be worthwhile. To this end, while calculation and laboratory exercises are integral, they are more than mere academic rituals. They are designed to provide knowledge, spark engagement, and create value. Each exercise is a commitment on my part to ensure that students don't just learn, but also perceive the relevance and worth of what they're learning.

In essence, my driving force is a blend of transparency, clarity, and purpose. Every time I step into a classroom or design a course, I carry with me a vision to inspire, enlighten, and empower my students, ensuring that their academic journey is both enriching and rewarding."

What is your advice to international students before coming to LTH?

"Embrace the Swedish culture, such as the concept of 'fika' – a coffee break that’s more about socialising than merely having coffee. Prepare for the weather and changing daylight, especially during winter as it can be chilly with very few daylight hours. Invest in good quality winter wear, and make sure to find bright environments that stimulate you. Sweden is at the forefront of sustainability and environmental consciousness, so embrace recycling, energy conservation, and other sustainable practices. Biking is prevalent in Lund, and it's a cost-effective and efficient way to move around. Consider investing in a bike but also familiarise yourself with local public transportation.

You’ll meet students from all over the world. This diversity is an opportunity to learn, share, and grow. Stay open to new experiences, cultures, and ideas. Invest time to understand the Swedish academic system, which might differ from what you're used to. We also emphasise independent thinking, also during group work.

Lastly, remember that moving to a new country and culture can be challenging, but it's also an enriching experience filled with growth and discovery. Approach it with enthusiasm, curiosity, and an open heart, and Lund will soon feel like a second home."

Any other thoughts/facts you have, that could be interesting to people applying for this Master's?

"We champion viable manufacturing, production, and materials engineering. The focus is on sustainable and digitalised processes, automation, and global production. Our curriculum combines deep-rooted theoretical knowledge with hands-on exploration. Stimulated by industry partnerships, from industrial giants to SMEs, students are primed to address real-world challenges, manage complex processes, and innovate. It's not just a degree – it's a transformative journey into the future of sustainable manufacturing!"