Scientific progress in research is often a cross-continental endeavor, and Center for Sensor System (ZESS) at University of Siegen is no exception, as highlighted by the recent presence of Joy Wangechi Muriithi (in 2024) and Stella Kemboi (in 2025) from Dedan Kimathi University (DEKUT) in Kenya.
During their stay at the Chair of Technical Thermodynamics (TTS) under Prof. Thomas Seeger, both researchers utilized time-resolved coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) for their Master’s theses. Joy’s research focused on measuring S-branch Raman line widths to improve gas-phase reaction diagnostics, while Stella’s work on Raman line widths provided critical data for the accuracy of optical temperature measurements in reactive gas phase flows.
Photographing master students Joy and Stella required a shift from the “gritty” disco-atmosphere of the active CARS pulse sessions to a more composed study of professional pride. These images collectively document the Erasmus+ funded exchange (KA171) that brings diverse and international perspectives to Siegen.
Working with Joy and Stella was an absolute pleasure and a great way to close out this series at ZESS. I wish them both the very best in their future research careers – and it made me particularly happy to see Joy’s kind words about our shoot in the lab!
