Hi, my name is Aleena Mehta and I am a sophomore at Barnard College, majoring in Economics with a minor in Political Science. I grew up in Jammu and Kashmir, India, and hence have always been fascinated by the field of geopolitics. My research at the Laidlaw Foundation would revolve around extrapolating a relationship between state sovereignty and civil rights violations in the Kashmir crisis. This includes understanding the threat to the autonomy and stability of non-state actors in periods of territorial conflicts while investigating the recent socio-economic developments in the region.
Dear Laidlaw community,
My name is Esteban Germann, and I am thrilled to be part of the Laidlaw Scholars Network as a 2023 Laidlaw Scholar EPFL.
I'm currently on an exciting journey as an architecture student at EPFL/ETHZ. My focus is on how the built environment affects humans and the way we live. Exploring this constantly evolving field, with its endless interdisciplinary connections, motivates me to create better living spaces for everyone!
During my research summer, I had the opportunity to carry out a research project in Professor Andersen's LIPID laboratory (EPFL). I worked on the development and use of high dynamic range images, exploring the complex world of light and its implications for human perception and visual comfort.
For my Leadership-in-Action project, I partnered with Stanford University and the Chinatown Community Development Center to investigate the impact of sustainable renovations on the well-being of low-income tenants in San Francisco’s Chinatown. My focus the effects of thermal renovations on residents' health and financial security. This experience provided invaluable insights into how architectural interventions affect human well-being.
My Laidlaw journey is an experience I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life! I met wonderful people along the way. It was through sharing with others that I truly learned. Feel free to reach out, I'd love to connect!
All the best ;)
Esteban Germann EPFL | Laidlaw Scholar | Class of 2023
About Me
My name is Muhammed and I'm currently studying for my Bachelor's degree in Economics with Management at Durham University. Sustainability is a lifelong passion of mine, and I'm especially interested in exploring circular economy solutions.
Areas of Focus
For my final year research project, I'm analysing circular business models being adopted by small and medium enterprises across the UK. I'm looking specifically at capabilities in areas like supply chain management, manufacturing techniques, waste reduction strategies, and designing for the long-term.
Research Goals
By highlighting real case studies of circular SMEs, my aim is to identify best practices that can help more companies make the transition. I want to provide actionable insights for policymakers and businesses seeking to build a stronger, greener local economy.
Additional Interests
In my spare time I enjoy learning about new technologies like AI and blockchain that could enable greater circularity. I'm also passionate about spreading awareness of sustainability issues to help drive societal change.
Get In Touch
I'd love to discuss circular innovations with anyone interested in supporting this growing movement. Please feel free to reach out if you'd like to chat or have any feedback on my research. I'm always looking to learn more!
On weekdays, I'm a microengineering student fascinated by 3D bioprinting of living tissue, wearable devices, electronic skin, soft robotics and neural interfaces.
On weekends, I'm a House and Freestyle Hip-Hop dancer.
I am an undergraduate Physics student at Durham University and I am very passionate about developing and progressing sustainable energy solutions. I believe we can tackle the global energy crisis through focused research, adequate funding and widespread education on the need for a systemic change.
I also firmly believe that it is only by creating the sparks of passion and understanding through the education of our wider community that we set alight the fires of progress for our sustainable and progressive future.
