The project NEPHEWS supports the exchange of knowledge through internships of early-stage researchers at European user facilities.
In April 2026, Adrian Grzonka, a student for the Jagiellonian University in Poland, completed his research stay at the ELBE Center for High-Power Radiation Sources at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf in Germany.
Adrian has a strong chemistry background working with biopolymers as well as with advanced materials like quantum dots and nanoparticles.
At the ELBE facility, Adrian’s visit overlapped with two user experiments that involved high-field high-repetition-rate terahertz (THz) radiation.
“During my stay at the ELBE/TELBE facility (HZDR, Dresden) I had the opportunity to closely observe complex experiments with the superconducting linac and intense terahertz sources. These experiments demanded extreme precision, deep understanding of the equipment, and meticulous sample handling. Watching these challenging procedures made me realize that in advanced physical setups, mastering the instrument is just as critical as understanding the sample itself.
From this experience I learned how nonlinear THz spectroscopy is performed in real time and how physical phenomena can be approached from a perspective completely different from my daily chemical background. Beyond the technical insights, I also gained valuable experience working in an engineering-intensive, multicultural environment where diverse scientific approaches come together to solve complex problems.”
The training helped Adrian
Adrian concluded his stay with an optimistic note for the future:
“This training was very important for me as a young researcher. I’m deeply grateful to the TELBE team for their support, for sharing their practical know-how, and for making me feel part of the international scientific community.”
The NEPHEWS Project is committed to supporting the next generation of researchers with access to state-of-the-art user facilities across Europe.