Jelle A.W. Poland

In order to understand why I choose to work on this topic, three things are relevant. Firstly, I enjoy a challenge and have found that technical challenges can get me into a flow state, where work feels like play. I find fluid-flows fascinating to watch, which let me to study Aerodynamics. During the study, aeroelasticity and fluid-structure interaction in particular drew my attention. Secondly one of my life goals is to balance my contribution to the world, in other words, that my work contributes enough to counter the negative environmental effects my presence (currently) has. Enabling renewables to thrive is one way towards this goal. The last reason comes from my passion for kite-surfing and my enthusiasm for flying objects in general. Taking these three aspects into account, it is not surprising that I enjoyed my MSc thesis where I worked on the aeroelasticity of kites used for wind energy extractions. When offered a PhD position, to continue my work, I accepted with much gratitude.