From Exchange Student to Doctor in Engineering

Arriving in Upper Austria in the winter semester of 2015/2016 through the Ernst Mach Grant, what began as a short academic exchange soon developed into a sustained and impactful scientific career defined by dedication, collaboration, and innovation.

During his initial stay at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Wels Campus, he worked on the project “Surface properties and tribological behaviour of thick carbon films deposited on different steels,” laying the groundwork for his future research career. These results later formed the basis of his master’s thesis, which he successfully defended in Argentina in 2018 to earn his degree in Electromechanical Engineering.

His connection to Austria continued to deepen over time: in 2021 he returned as a PhD student through the Ernst Mach Worldwide Grant, followed by another research stay from September 2022 to February 2023. These periods proved highly productive and resulted in several peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences across Argentina, German, Spain, France, Portugal, and the United States.

Research, Collaboration, and Scientific Impact

Francisco’s journey is closely tied to a long-standing collaboration between FH Upper Austria and his home institution Universidad Tecnológica Nacional (UTN) in Argentina, a partnership active since 2008 and strengthened through exchanges, joint publications, and mutual visits. Through his involvement, this collaboration expanded further, connecting research groups across Europe and beyond.

After multiple successful research stays, he transitioned into a full-time role at FH Upper Austria in 2022 as part of the project NaKuRe, an Austrian research initiative focused on improving plastic recycling methods and supporting a circular economy through better material design and reuse strategies. In August 2025 he defended his PhD thesis, “Carbon-based DLC coatings to protect steels from wear and corrosion,” earning the title Doctor in Engineering (Dr. Ing.) with a specialization in Materials.

During his research career, Francisco also contributed to additional interdisciplinary projects at FH Upper Austria. He has been involved in LaSaGnE, which develops advanced polymer-based layered materials using additive manufacturing (3D printing) to create new material properties while considering the full life cycle of products. In parallel, he contributed to HOpE, a project focused on the development and optimization of battery electrodes to improve energy storage performance, efficiency, and durability. These projects are part of Austrian applied research funding schemes supported through national research programmes and funding agencies such as the FFG and regional innovation programmes.

He has since continued contributing to research initiatives such as LaSaGnE and HOpE while co-authoring four peer-reviewed papers in leading journals, with several more in progress.

Beyond his own research achievements, Francisco has also taken an active role in mentoring the next generation of international students. He has already supervised an Argentinian student who arrived for the winter semester 2023/2024 with the same scholarship that once brought him to Austria. The student is now close to defending his master’s thesis. Francisco

sees this as a way of giving back—helping others experience the same academic and cultural opportunities that shaped his own path.

As his supervisor, Dr. Daniel Heim, emphasizes: “Francisco is an exceptionally hard-working and talented student and now a valued member of our team. He is a key contributor in the development of new plasma coating processes and in advancing diamond-like carbon coatings with entirely new properties.”

A Message for Future International Students

Francisco Delfin’s story illustrates the transformative power of international exchange programs. What began as a single semester abroad evolved into a long-term academic partnership, a successful research career, and a lasting connection with FH Upper Austria. Reflecting on his journey, Francisco emphasizes the personal challenges and growth that came with stepping outside his comfort zone:

“Despite the fear of the unknown, the cultural differences between Latin America and Europe, and the always-difficult language challenges ahead, my experience in Austria not only changed my life and my career path, but it also opened my mind and helped me to become a better, more tolerant, patient and empathic person.”

His journey also highlights the importance of giving back—supporting future students and keeping international collaborations alive. It sends a clear message to international students that opportunities abroad can become life-changing pathways when pursued with curiosity, dedication, and perseverance.