“My time at PtU was formative”. Interview with Dr.-Ing. Philipp Stein

Why did you decide to do a doctorate at that time?

In the course of working on my master’s thesis, I realized that I enjoy scientific work and that the working atmosphere at the PtU is simply great. In the end, it was these two points that were decisive for me to start my doctorate at the PtU.

In your opinion, what distinguishes a doctorate at the PtU?

The doctorate is particularly enriched by the many connections to national and international research institutes. In addition to the doctorate, I would like to emphasize the variety between scientific work, industrial projects as well as the organization of conferences and the daily routine at the institute.

What advice would you give to students who are considering or have just started a doctorate?

Hold on, it's worth it. At times you think “How am I supposed to do this?” but that's exactly what brings you further in the end and shows what you can do. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a nine-to-five job with clearly defined tasks, you should refrain from doing a doctorate.

What was the best thing about your time at the PtU?

The regular department evenings and the annual company outing were always highlights. In addition to the leisure time fun, they have strengthened the collegial cohesion enormously. I have particularly positive memories of this solidarity between colleagues. In this way, some colleagues became friends beyond the time at the institute.

Getting a doctorate is not always easy, what was the biggest challenge for you?

For me, defining the scientific question of my doctoral topic was the greatest challenge. All other tasks could be accomplished with commitment and diligence.

Did you stay in the field of metal forming?

Yes, I stayed true to metal forming and now work in a stamping plant where metal rings are stamped for sealing elements.

How is the TU Darmstadt and especially the PtU perceived in industry?

The TU Darmstadt is known by many companies for excellent training. The PtU is perceived as an excellent partner by companies with a focus on metal forming and their own development department.

What was the job search like after completing the doctorate?

Finding a job turned out to be more difficult than initially expected. I got the impression that many HR managers understand a doctorate to mean working in the laboratory or in the basement. Making it clear to them that PtU attaches particular importance to a multi-layered education with diverse industrial projects was sometimes difficult or impossible due to anonymous input masks.

Would you decide to do a doctorate again?

Yes, I would, but only under the framework conditions that exist at the PtU. Contact with other institutes introduced me to models where there were significantly fewer industry contacts or employment was on a part-time basis.

And finally: describe your PtU time in one word

formative

Mr Stein, thank you very much for the interview. I wish you continued success and enjoyment in your task

(Interview done by A. Kokozinski)