What was your main reason for coming to Sweden?
I participated in an exchange studies program between Luleå University of Technology and Arkhangelsk State Technical University (in my hometown) and, therefore, came to Sweden as an exchange student.
What is the best thing about living in Sweden?
I like climate as it is exactly the same as I used to have back home and a very high level of comfort in many perspectives.
Can you tell me a bit about your work and why you decided to come to Sweden?
I am working with developing of zeolite membranes for efficient production of biofuels and chemicals. Such a membrane can act as a very fine filter able to separate molecules from each other. For instance, I am trying to separate butanol from water or carbon dioxide from hydrogen using a zeolite membrane. An efficient membrane separation process requires a low amount of energy and gives a very pure product that can be used directly without any further processing. For instance, a high grade butanol fuel can potentially be produced this way. So I believe that membrane processes are a very interesting and appealing research topic. As I mentioned above, I came to Sweden for the first time as an exchange student at the age of 20. At that time, I knew that Swedish universities had a good reputation and most master programs were given in English so it was possible to come and study without knowing some other language. Not many countries (apart from English speaking countries) offer such opportunities. I guess that was what helped me to make the decision to come to Sweden.
How would you describe your career perspectives in Sweden?
I would describe the career perspectives as good. I feel like there are many great opportunities for people with Master or PhD degrees in Sweden, both in research and industry.
What was surprising for you when you moved to Sweden?
A huge number of bicycles standing everywhere, and the interesting thing is that the number is not even a little smaller in winters, even when the temperature goes below –25°C.
What do you miss from your home country?
I think a soup for lunch, and my family and friends of course.
What do you like most about living in Sweden and why?
Sweden has a very low level of bureaucracy and a high level of transparency and equality in basically everything, which makes the life a lot easier and nicer. I also appreciate a lot a high level of trust on any basis.