Sebastian Hellmann
The six months that Sebastian Hellman spent as an intern with the Robinson team in 2008 was a component of his German electrical engineering diploma.
Sebastian has since completed a Master’s degree in energy systems and is now studying for a PhD in superconducting energy systems at KIT in Germany.
He says the projects he worked on at Robinson were demanding and challenging—but in a good way.
“I was working on non-destructive magnetic scanning methods to determine the quality and homogeneity of superconducting tapes. Getting this precise information is important if the tapes are destined for use in power system components, such as Roebel cable or coils.
“My colleagues were very warm and welcoming. I learned to work with people with different scientific backgrounds and I always got the support I needed. The supervision was really good but not too much—I was given time to find my own ways to manage the projects and complete the work.
“Because I’m still working in the superconductivity field, I continue to profit from the fundamental things I learned in New Zealand. Of course my English improved significantly too.”