Report - Summer School at Churchill College, Cambrige

PhD students Marika Federer and Boris Shapin attende the two-wee FDSE Summer School on Fluid Dynamics of Sustainability and the Environment at the University of Cambridge, held from September 1 to September 12, 2025.

The event took place at Churchill College and was organized by the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics in collaboration with École Polytechnique in Paris. The summer school brought together international PhD students and early-career scientists from diverse backgrounds in earth sciences, engineering, and mathematics.

The program provided an excellent opportunity to deepen our understanding of the fluid-dynamical aspects of energy transition and climate change. Each day featured lectures on a variety of topics, including ocean dynamics, atmospheric flows, and ice sheet behavior, illustrating how fluid flow processes influence these complex systems. In addition, we participated in computational and laboratory exercises, which allowed us to gain practical experience with fluid instabilities and connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications.

The event also emphasized networking among participants and faculty, fostering an inspiring exchange of ideas with researchers from around the world. Outside of the academic program, we enjoyed exploring Cambridge and taking part in activities such as punting on the River Cam.

Overall, the summer school provided a valuable combination of scientific learning, hands-on experience, and international collaboration, an enriching experience for our research careers.