Spot ON - From Postdoc to...

Our guest today is Dr. Arash Azhand, an AI and data science specialist with a background in theoretical and mathematical physics.


Arash studied physics at Technische Universität Berlin, where he also completed his PhD and subsequently worked as a postdoctoral researcher. His research focused on self-organization and nonlinear dynamics, including the emergence of wave patterns in biological systems. Although he initially planned to pursue an academic career, unsuccessful funding applications and the prospect of moving between temporary postdoctoral positions led him to reconsider his long-term path.


In this episode, Arash reflects on how he found his way from academic research into data science and artificial intelligence. He explains why the ability to analyse complex problems, quickly enter unfamiliar fields, and distinguish relevant ideas from passing trends became particularly valuable beyond the university.


The conversation also explores the personal side of this transition: adapting to new working cultures, redefining professional expectations, and finding a healthier and more sustainable approach to work. Looking back on his own journey, Arash shares what he believes researchers should consider when deciding whether to remain in academia or pursue opportunities elsewhere.


The interview was conducted by Dr. Christina Ayazi from ZEWK at TU Berlin.

Dr. Karina Zittel (former Cagarman) is a postdoc researcher and lecturer at Technische Universität Berlin and entrepreneur, in the field of entrepreneurship and innovation management. Her research focuses on sustainable entrepreneurship as well as the role of well-being and positive psychology in entrepreneurial contexts. She is particularly interested in how founders can build ventures that are not only economically successful but also personally meaningful and fulfilling.


In her teaching, she combines business topics with insights from psychology and personal development. Among the courses she teaches are Entrepreneurial Well-Being and Design Your Happy Life, where she explores the connection between positive psychology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Through her work, she aims to support students in developing both innovative ideas and a strong sense of personal purpose.


Among the many tips for the postdoc period, the interview focuses on the differences between the academic world and the business world, as well as the compatibility of family and career.


The interview was conducted by Dr. Christina Ayazi from ZEWK at TU Berlin.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Rhea Machado, a chemical engineer who transitioned into a scientist-entrepreneur, transforming academic research into a startup tackling some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges. 


As a co-founder of Porelio, Rhea is developing advanced materials to remove persistent pollutants—so-called “forever chemicals”—from water, contributing to a more sustainable and carbon-neutral future.


Rhea shares candid insights into what it means to step into entrepreneurship without a safety net—and why, in her case, not having a Plan B became a powerful motivator rather than a risk.


She reflects on navigating motherhood alongside building a company, and why strong support systems—both at home and professionally—are not optional, but essential.


Importantly, she highlights the role of institutional support in enabling this transition. Mentorship and early-stage programs at TU Berlin, particularly the StarTUps initiative, played a key role in helping her move from research to real-world application.


Beyond strategy and structure, this episode captures something often overlooked: the genuine joy of building something meaningful with a team. Rhea speaks about the energy that comes from working toward shared goals, and the sense of purpose that can emerge when scientific expertise meets entrepreneurial drive.


The interview was conducted by Dr. Christina Ayazi from ZEWK at TU Berlin.