Studying Materials Science in Germany: Tim’s Journey Abroad
Thinking about studying in Germany? Meet Tim, a chemical engineer whose passion for energy materials, nanotechnology, and advanced processing led him from zinc–air battery research and industrial training at a leading research institute to the prestigious Advanced Materials and Processes (MAP) master’s program at FAU Erlangen–Nürnberg. His journey shows why Germany is the ideal destination for ambitious students aiming to turn cutting-edge research into real-world innovation.
From Lab to Germany
Laboratory glassware and instruments reflect Tim’s early research on zinc–air batteries and nanomaterials in Taiwan — the foundation that prepared him for advanced studies in materials science in Germany at FAU’s MAP program.
The Spark｜Chemical Engineering Roots and Passion for Energy Materials
Tim’s journey in materials began at the Department of Chemical Engineering at National Chung Cheng University in Taiwan. Even two years after graduation, his thirst for knowledge has never stopped.
During his bachelor thesis on rechargeable zinc–air batteries, he focused on electrolyte optimization, studying the control of zinc electrode porosity and electrolyte ratios. He even synthesized silica nanoparticles and explored thin film fabrication himself.
This solid academic training and lab experience allowed him to understand the mysteries of ion transport, reaction kinetics, and membrane microstructures, igniting a deeper passion for energy materials engineering. His curiosity about the microscopic world, coupled with a desire to translate discoveries into real-world applications, grew like wildfire within him.
Industry Practice｜Training at Industrial Technology Research Institute
After military service, Tim joined Taiwan’s largest industrial research organization — Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) — as a materials and chemical research engineer. For him, this was more than just a job: it was a chance to apply what he had learned and, at the same time, prepare for German language studies and future master’s exams in a stable environment.
“This journey gave me a lot,” Tim recalls, with a mix of exhaustion and determination in his eyes. Despite often working from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., he realized that while chemical engineering and materials science are related, they differ greatly once you dive deeper. This experience filled the gaps in his practical training, helping him move from theoretical knowledge to industrial practice, and revealing the true challenge and fascination of “real” materials science.
At ITRI, Tim participated in several key projects at the forefront of industry:
He optimized thermal control and powder mixing for high-purity SiC wafers, precisely controlling crystal growth.
In collaboration with Japan’s Tokuyama, he worked on the growth and thermal-field optimization of 6-inch SiC boules. Witnessing the successful growth of a 6-inch crystal felt like shaping the future with his own hands.
With Japan’s Sumitomo, he contributed to the development of high-performance Si₃N₄ powders with thermal conductivity above 120 W/m·K, overcoming bottlenecks in composition and sintering processes to achieve stable, reproducible results.
These hands-on experiences sharpened Tim’s ability to connect material properties with process conditions. More importantly, he realized that in the “AI-driven era of materials development,” computational modeling and real-world experiments must go hand-in-hand to accelerate innovation. This insight became the compass for his next steps.
Study Abroad Motivation｜The Call of FAU’s Advanced Materials and Processes
Despite a strong background in Taiwan, Tim’s hunger for knowledge never stopped. He sought to deepen his expertise in computational materials modeling and advanced processing, leading him to apply for the M.Sc. in Advanced Materials and Processes (MAP) at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen–Nürnberg (FAU).
What attracted him wasn’t just the curriculum, but the environment: FAU sits in the Nuremberg metropolitan region, known for its wide academic spectrum, interdisciplinary tradition, and strong ties between research and industry. For someone eager to turn ideas into practice, this setting is ideal.
When asked why Germany, Tim gave a practical answer: “Tuition fees in Germany are affordable. Compared to the hundreds of thousands needed in the US or UK, Germany offers high value.” He admits his German learning has been slow, but with MAP’s fully English-taught courses, he can focus on his field without being constrained by language barriers.
MAP is a small, interdisciplinary program (max ~50 students per year, winter intake only). Classes are interactive and discussion-heavy, allowing students to tailor their curriculum between materials science and chemical/bioprocess engineering. Four specialization areas structure the program:
Advanced Processes
Biomaterials & Bioprocessing
Computational Materials Science & Process Simulation
Nanomaterials & Nanotechnology
Students may also pursue Zusatzstudien (research or industry-oriented study tracks) for an official certificate at graduation.
For Tim, the most appealing aspect is the way theory and practice are “placed on the same table”: computational models and process engineering speak to each other, with classroom learning and lab research advancing hand in hand. Building on what he learned at his previous job, he aims to connect nanomaterials, advanced processing, and simulations into a complete toolkit — ultimately transforming innovative discoveries into scalable, sustainable solutions.
Nuremberg - where FAU bridges theory and practice
Sandstone bridge connecting two wings of the Old Town Hall in Nuremberg, symbolizing the link between history and innovation. Just as this bridge unites two buildings, Tim’s journey from ITRI in Taiwan to the FAU MAP program in Germany builds a bridge between theory and practice in materials science—transforming academic research into real-world applications.
University Application Strategy｜Study Abroad Consultants and Mock Interviews
To ensure his application was airtight, Tim sought professional support. With TaiGer, he aligned his timeline, shortlisted programs, and fine-tuned his CV and motivation letter according to German admissions standards. His research experience was reframed into a focused narrative, tightly matching academic requirements with program goals.
He also joined multiple rounds of mock interviews, practicing answers to questions like “Why MAP?” and “How will you connect industry and research?” With structured feedback and supporting materials, he learned to present his achievements more clearly within a limited time. This training gave him the confidence to face the selection process fully prepared.
Challenges and Growth｜Discipline, Resilience, and Problem-Solving
Tim knows challenges lie ahead: Germany’s bureaucracy, housing search difficulties, and academic pressure. Yet he embraces them as trials that will strengthen him. His military service instilled discipline, teamwork, and crisis management. His love for hiking and half-marathons trained perseverance and focus. These qualities form the foundation for his academic and career resilience.
He also benefited from TaiGer’s structured support. The six-week pre-departure seminar series covered housing, health insurance, daily life, and cultural differences, giving him a safety net of preparation.
He contrasts Taiwan’s graduate culture — where choosing professors and GPA dominate — with Germany’s focus on practical experience, which he believes aligns better with career growth. While he expects high pressure and tough grading in Germany, he trusts that focus and self-management will carry him through.
Tim’s story is a portrait of a young Taiwanese scientist striving to shine on the international stage with passion and skill. Beyond technical excellence, he hones resilience through life’s challenges, aiming to turn material innovations into scalable, sustainable solutions that contribute to the future.
As Tim begins his new chapter in Germany this September 2025, are you also curious to see how his preparation and passion will translate into success? Stay tuned — we’ll reconnect with him later to share firsthand stories from his study and life abroad.
Unlock Your Future with TaiGer
Tim’s path shows that studying in Germany is more than earning a degree — it’s about unlocking potential, exploring world-class research, and shaping a global career. With affordable tuition, strong industry ties, and programs like FAU’s MAP, Germany offers opportunities few countries can match. Ready to take the next step? TaiGer is here to guide you from application to arrival and beyond.
