Rochdi El Arnouki Akhrij joins ICMM with a research contract

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He is Rochdi El Arnouki Akhrij, unless his friends call him Rusti. He is working at the Materials Science Institute of Madrid (ICMM-CSIC) as a new member of the Surface Nanostructuring for Space and Terrestrial Communications Group. "I was born in Alhucemas, Marruecos, but I moved to Spain when I was seven years old. Since I was a child I was attracted by science and, before starting Chemistry, I considered Physics or Engineering", he says.

What have you worked on so far?

I haven't had any formal work experience until now, as I recently graduated. After completing my degree in chemistry, I completed a Master's in Teacher Training to gain a different perspective on education and understand how science teaching can be improved. During this time, I also completed several internships at the Institute of Materials Science in Madrid (ICMM-CSIC), which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of research and discover my interest in this field.

What will you work on? With whom?

I will be working in the  Surface Nanostructuring for Space and Terrestrial Communications Group under the direction of Isabel Montero Herrero. This group collaborates with various institutions, such as the European Space Agency (ESA), to improve materials for space satellites. My responsibilities within the group will include the preparation of coatings using innovative techniques, material processing, and their characterization using various techniques, such as SEY (Secondary Electron Yield), SEM-EDX, and Thermal Emissivity, among others. What motivates me most about this stage is the opportunity to learn and broaden my perspective on science and its impact on the world.

Why did you choose ICMM?

I chose the ICMM because it's a leading center for materials research and offers a multidisciplinary environment that combines chemistry, physics, and engineering. During my previous stays at the institute, I saw firsthand the quality of the research conducted here, which motivated me to continue in this field. Furthermore, the fact that I collaborate with organizations like the ESA makes it an ideal place to develop my career and continue learning.

And a personal touch: any hobbies? What would you like to contribute to the institute?

In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors, playing sports, hiking, and learning new languages. Lately, I've become interested in programming, as I consider it a very useful tool for science and technology. I also like to constantly continue my training, as I believe learning never ends.

At the institute, I would like to contribute my great curiosity, my proactive attitude, and my desire to learn. I also have a good predisposition for teamwork and to help out in whatever is needed. I consider myself a resourceful and skilled person, which allows me to adapt well to technical and experimental work within the laboratory.