Prof. Dr. Arash Massoudi is Professor of Engineering Mathematics at the Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences. In this interview, he talks about his passion for science.
Prof. Dr. Arash Massoudi is Professor of Engineering Mathematics at the Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences. In this interview, the Iranian-born professor talks about his passion for science, his main areas of research and what he particularly likes about the Zittau region.
Professor Massoudi, what has your academic journey been like so far?
After finishing school in my hometown of Shiraz, I studied electrical engineering at the University of Tehran. Then I continued with a master's degree in technomathematics at the University of L'Aquila in Italy and finally I completed my doctorate in applied mathematics at the University of Hamburg. After my doctorate, I worked for several years as a software developer in the CAD sector, specializing in data preparation for automated manufacturing.
What inspired you to pursue a career in science?
The curiosity to gain new knowledge in my field has always motivated me to pursue a career in science. Teaching applied mathematics excites me, and I see the university as the perfect place for interdisciplinary collaboration.
And what brought you to Upper Lusatia and to the HSZG in particular?
The rich cultural history and the varied landscape of the region appealed to me. I feel honored to be part of this high-performance university and look forward to contributing to teaching and research at the HSZG.
What is your focus here at the HSZG and what do you find fascinating about it?
My focus is on teaching and research in applied mathematics. I am particularly interested in numerical methods for the optimal control of dynamic systems. Many physical and technical processes can be mathematically modeled as dynamic systems where stability and control are essential. I am working on developing algorithms that optimize the behavior of these systems.
How do you organize your teaching to get students interested in your subject?
I attach great importance to practice-oriented teaching that takes current technological developments into account. Visualization tools are particularly important to me in order to explain mathematical concepts clearly.
What advice would you give to students who want to pursue an academic career in your field?
"Find a subject that you are passionate about and follow your enthusiasm! Read specialist journals, attend lectures and actively participate in research projects. This is not only valuable for your professional development, but also helps you to build up a network. And stay persistent - don't let obstacles discourage you!"
Can you give your students any survival tips for the exam period?
"Attend the lectures, work on the exercise sheets and compare your solutions with your fellow students. This will help you to close any gaps in your knowledge in good time. During the exam period, you should work on old exams under time pressure and make sure you eat healthily and get enough sleep."
What is Prof. Dr. Massoudi like as a private person? Do you have any hobbies or interests that perhaps not everyone knows about?
Yes, actually - I like to play chess in my free time.
Is there a special place in the region where you can switch off particularly well?
Lake Olbersdorf is definitely my favorite place!
Do you have a life motto that guides you?
Yes, my motto in life is: "Practice makes perfect".
The interview was conducted by the University Development and Communication Office, UAS Human Resources Department.