Siwar BEN HADJ ALI

Coming from the Country of Jasmine – Tunisia, I have an academic background in computational mechanics engineering, with a specific interest in multiphysical phenomena explored through advanced numerical tools and techniques.

Joining the DESTINY program has been a rewarding challenge. My PhD focuses on 3D-resolved computational modeling of mechano-electrochemistry in solid-state batteries. This topic allowed me to apply my core knowledge in numerical simulation and mechanics to a highly applied and emerging domain. It also pushed me to dive deeply into the world of batteries, electrochemistry, and industry-specific needs. Despite the steep learning curve, I found myself truly enjoying and appreciating this interdisciplinary field.

As part of DESTINY, I’ve attended several training schools related to my research, in countries including Belgium, Denmark, and Slovenia. I also participated in two DESTINY annual meetings, the first in Poland, and the second in Spain, where I had the chance to present the progress and outcomes of my work.

One of the highlights of my journey also has been a two-month secondment at Umicore in Olen, Belgium, where I conducted experimental work to complement and validate my numerical simulations. Additionally, I had the opportunity to showcase my research at the 247th ECS Meeting in Montréal, Canada, and I’m preparing to present again at the 2025 MRS Fall Meeting in Boston, Massachusetts this December. So far, I have authored two scientific publications and co-authored two others, contributing to the growing body of research in computational modeling for battery technologies.

I am truly proud to be part of this program and grateful to have been selected among such a talented group of researchers. I look forward to completing this journey with the same excitement and commitment I had when it started all the way to my PhD defense.