Sep 03, 2026
Paper Research Brings People Together - Summer School in the French Alps
Discussing research, discovering new perspectives, networking across Europe… all in the heart of the French Alps! Three doctoral students from our Chair attended this year’s Summer School for Early-Career Researchers in Paper Technology. This year’s host was Grenoble INP – Pagora.
The Summer School is hosted annually by a different European university; after taking place in Ebernburg last year, it was held in France this time. The focus was on the research of early-career researchers: In daily lecture sessions, participants presented their current work and discussed various approaches and research questions in paper technology.
Our doctoral students presented their research on:
- Development of fiber-based structures for protective packaging—mechanical characterization, structural development, and resource-efficient design (Nora Horn)
- Pore-resolved modeling of fluid dynamics in press felts using 3D reconstruction from μCT images (Luis Miguel Estrada)
- Bonding potential of dry fibers in semi-dry papermaking (Max Loist)
The wide range of presentations provided insights into current research at various European universities—and numerous points of connection for technical discussions that went beyond the presenters’ own topics.
What does the future of European paper research look like?
Participants also addressed this question in joint workshops. The focus was on future collaboration and networking among European researchers in the field of papermaking technology. In particular, the direct exchange between early-career researchers from different universities highlighted just how valuable such international formats are for generating new ideas and shared perspectives.
The supporting program demonstrated that meaningful scientific connections aren’t limited to the seminar room: events like cheese and wine tastings, stargazing, and a group hike provided ample opportunity to strike up conversations. The French Alpine panorama was an added bonus.
Thus, the week combined academic discussions with international collaboration and shared experiences. For our three doctoral students, it offered the opportunity to discuss their own research in a European context, gain new perspectives, and forge connections beyond their own university.
Many thanks to Grenoble INP – Pagora for organizing the event and to all participants for the engaging discussions, fresh insights, and an all-around successful Summer School!