Fulbright at MIT: Giulia Fredi’s experience

Established in 1946, the Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious international academic exchange programs. We asked Giulia Fredi to share her experience:

“The Fulbright Research Scholar 2024–2025 grant offered me an extraordinary opportunity: eight months of research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston. On January 13, 2025, I arrived in Boston to begin my experience at the necstlab (Nano-Engineered Composite aerospace STructures Laboratory), led by Prof. Brian L. Wardle. My project focused on the development of nanocomposites that combine aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with organic phase-change materials (PCMs), such as paraffins and fatty acids. PCMs can absorb and release large amounts of thermal energy, but they suffer from low thermal conductivity and a tendency to leak above their melting point. My research addressed the confinement of these materials within arrays of aligned carbon nanotubes, which act as a scaffold, maintaining the shape even when the PCM is in the molten state and improving thermal conductivity. I synthesized aligned nanotubes and densified them to produce composites with contents of up to 30 vol%—concentrations unthinkable with traditional, non-aligned nanotubes. The results showed that thermal conductivity increases with CNT concentration, as expected; however, excessive nanoconfinement can reduce the crystallization capacity of the PCM, negatively affecting thermal energy storage performance.”

An intense, stimulating, and multicultural environment

“The intensity of the working environment at MIT struck me immediately. Everyone demonstrates extraordinary dedication, which was initially challenging but ultimately incredibly stimulating. The laboratory is a true cultural mix: colleagues from every continent, each with their own background. Only by living this experience did I truly understand what a ‘melting pot’ of cultures means. Particularly valuable was the exchange with other international visiting researchers who shared my same challenges in adapting to such a competitive environment.”

Collaborations and growth

“MIT’s network facilitated collaborations with students from necstlab and other research groups, such as that of Prof. Svetlana Boriskina for thermal properties and Prof. Gang Chen for photothermal applications. Beyond research, I took part in the activities of the MITaly association, including the ‘Pasta Challenge,’ which brings together Italian associations from various Boston universities, such as Harvard, Tufts, Northeastern, and Boston University.

One of the most rewarding cultural experiences was joining the MIT Concert Choir, performing in four concerts, including one with the Boston Pops Orchestra at Symphony Hall. Through the Consulate General of Italy, I also participated in official events that allowed me to expand my network within the Italian and Italian-American academic and professional community in the Boston area.”

An experience that continues

“Now that I am back in Trento, I bring with me new technical skills and a network of relationships that will continue to enrich my path. The Fulbright Program gave me the opportunity to grow both as a researcher and as a person. I hope my experience can inspire other colleagues to apply for similar opportunities.”

If anyone is interested in learning more about the Fulbright Program, I would be happy to share details and advice. The call for the next academic year is usually published in the fall.