Meet Indian doctoral student in Energy Systems Damu Murali, who in 2024 received funding for a three-month exchange from the University of Gävle, Sweden, to the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) in Copenhagen. Read Damu’s own words about his exchange experiences below, such as: 

  • What he did  
  • What he learnt  
  • His impression of the Nordics as an integrated region and as an international player  
  • Advice to others who wish to apply for funding for an exchange period 

Damu Murali is a doctoral student in Energy Systems within the Resilient Competence Center at the University of Gävle, Sweden.

“Broaden my outlook as a person and as a researcher”

This was my first exchange program with another university since starting my PhD research at the University of Gävle, and it was an enriching experience despite the short duration. Firstly, collaborating with a research group in another country broadened my research perspective. Exploring DTU’s state-of-the-art research facilities, gaining exposure to cutting-edge advancements in renewable energy, and working with peers all contributed to my professional and personal development. DTU has a rich international environment, and during my stay, I met and interacted with many students and fellow researchers from various countries. This helped me understand the common and distinct energy challenges and broaden my outlook as a person and as a researcher.

No research without fun: amidst the demanding and challenging research tasks, the DTU research group always made time for recreational activities and enjoyable moments. I always cherished the morning coffee breaks (similar to Swedish Fika) on Tuesdays when everyone gathered and interacted with each other; that was a time for discussions on any topic under the sky. This brought about an active culture within the group members that went beyond the research. It was inspiring to know that they had been following this tradition for so many years. Living in Copenhagen further strengthened my appreciation for sustainable thinking and actions. Being a biker’s paradise, Copenhagen’s commitment to cycling culture reflects its dedication to environmental consciousness and sustainable urban planning.

Damu sharing a dinner with his colleagues.

Exchanges allow for the transfer of ideas and insights

Being an exchange student in another country always comes with challenges. However, I was incredibly lucky to have my colleagues at DTU, as they were very supportive and considered me as part of their family from day one. This experience reinforced the importance of active collaboration in research that broadens one’s perspective. I also discovered valuable connections between my work at DTU and my ongoing research projects, PVT4EU and RESILIENT, helping me integrate into a multidisciplinary research network. One common thing I could find was that both DTU and the University of Gävle are deeply engaged in advancing renewable energy technologies and sustainability research, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex energy challenges in the Nordic region.

Regular in-person discussions played a crucial role in my exchange experience, allowing me to clarify and resolve some of my long-standing research questions. These face-to-face interactions fostered deeper engagement, enabling me to receive direct feedback and exchange ideas as well. Beyond problem-solving, these discussions provided fresh insights that helped refine my research approach and identify new directions for future work. The collaborative environment encouraged open dialogue, making complex challenges easier to tackle and strengthening my overall understanding of the subject.

The role the Nordics can play as an international player

Mobility is important for cross-border collaboration. There are many ongoing research collaborations between institutions in the Nordic region, and initiatives like the Nordic Energy Research Mobility Programme play a crucial role in strengthening these ties to address common technological challenges. However, it is equally important for researchers to have opportunities to collaborate with research groups beyond the Nordic region. Expanding collaborations internationally promotes inclusiveness, brings in diverse perspectives, and enhances the propagation of the knowledge-sharing process. By integrating both regional and global research efforts, Nordic institutions can not only advance innovation and sustainability within the region but also contribute to solving global challenges, reinforcing their role as key players in the international research community.

A toast to you and your colleagues, Damu!

Read more and apply for Individual Exchange Support

Nordic Energy Research’s Individual Exchange Support call offers a unique opportunity for PhD students, postdocs, and researchers in the Nordic region to secure financial support to collaborate with leading research groups in a Nordic country on research that contributes to the region’s sustainable energy development. These exchanges provide valuable exposure, enhance knowledge exchange, and strengthen regional research networks. Don’t hesitate to apply—plan ahead, prepare thoroughly, and seize the opportunity to expand your research horizons.

Read more about the programme here

Apply for funding here

For any questions about the call, feel free to contact Senior Adviser Maj Dang Trong or Adviser Ditte Stiler.