Women in Research #LINO25: Delvina Japhet Tarimo

Delvina from Tanzania is an AvH Fellow and Research Scientist at INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Saarbrücken, Germany.

She is researching and developing (R&D) cathode materials for lithium-sulfur batteries (Li-S) to create sustainable energy technology and enhance battery lifespan. LiS has shown promising potential as an alternative to lithium-ion batteries (LIB), utilizing environmentally friendly materials (sulfur) and possessing a five times higher energy density compared to LIB. Her goal is to develop innovative and environmentally friendly synthesis processes for engineering this cathode material, which will help reduce the cost of battery raw materials and facilitate the development of alternative batteries.

Delvina participates in the 74^th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting.

Enjoy the interview with Delvina and get inspired:

What inspired you to pursue a career in science / in your discipline?

I was driven by natural curiosity, seeking to solve some of humanity’s problems and a desire to address the country’s energy challenges. I recall that during my schooling, we experienced load shedding in various regions of the country, which disrupted both the school and the country’s economic activities. The experience prompted me to explore an alternative energy solution that could help reduce or solve the challenge. Sharing different scientific trial experiences, prospects, and achievements has always boosted my self-esteem and desire to become a prominent scientific figure in the scientific community. This motivates me to explore unanswered questions about energy storage systems, which impact many aspects of human life and contribute to solving the global energy crisis. That is why I am committed to expanding my knowledge to address the core problems of the energy crisis, which will touch many aspects of our lives by reforming transportation systems, helping reduce carbon emissions, and protecting our climate.

Who are your role models?

There are many names, some of which have had a direct impact on my achievement, and others I was inspired by because of their accomplishments. All the people I met on my scientific journey have influenced me in one way or another. My MSc Physics supervisors, Dr Margaret Samiji and Prof. Nuru Mlyuka, guided and demonstrated the passion and impact of a scientific career. They provided me with the opportunity to pursue my PhD in South Africa. I then met my PhD supervisor, Prof. Ncholu Manyala, who is an expert in the field of energy nanomaterials and electrochemical energy storage systems. Prof. Manyala always supports and encourages me to believe in myself, follow my path, and remain open to new ideas and opportunities. He is always interested in his students’ success and achievements and has consistently motivated them during challenging times. I am also inspired by Prof. Najat Mohammed, the Director General of the Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC). She was the Head of the Physics Department during my MSc studies in Physics, and she has always inspired women in STEM fields, sharing valuable advice for future careers. Then, there is Prof. Revocatus Machunda, the Director of Research and Innovation at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), who always encourages me to push the boundaries. My previous work colleague, Dr. Reuben Maghembe, with whom we were always encouraging each other to conduct science that has a direct impact on human lives. My current manager, Prof. Dr. Volker Presser, Director of Energy Materials Research Department, opened my first opportunity to work in Europe. There are many people whom I can look up to, and if I were to continue, I would write a book about them.

How did you get to where you are in your career path?

I earned my undergraduate degree in physics and mathematics, as well as a master’s degree in education, from St. John’s University of Tanzania, Dodoma, Tanzania. My desire to study physics led me to pursue another master’s degree in physics (research in material science) from the University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. It was during my MSc studies that I developed an interest in materials science for energy applications. I was inspired by the research work of Dr. Margareti Samiji and Prof. Nuru Mlyuka, which had a direct impact on environmental protection related to climate change. The group focused on material science and solar energy applications. I had inspiring mentors, Dr Margaret Samiji and Prof. Nuru Mlyuka (my MSc Physics supervisors from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania), who guided and demonstrated the passion and impact of a scientific career. They opened the opportunity for me to pursue my PhD. I recall that we were in the laboratory with my colleagues conducting experiments, and they came and shared information about the 2018 NANOSMAT conference in South Africa. They encouraged us to apply for the conference and offered to help us find funding for participation. My abstract was accepted, and I went to South Africa for the first time to present my research. That’s where I met my PhD supervisor, Prof. Ncholu Manyala from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, who was a National Research Foundation (NRF) SARChI Chair and a group leader of carbon nanomaterials for electrochemical energy storage. I had an interview with Prof. Manyala about my plans and steps to pursue a PhD, during which I expressed my interest and shared my educational background and skills. After the conference, I received an email from him stating that he had accepted to be my supervisor and would be supported by the NRF SARChI Chair Funding of South Africa. Prof. Manyala guided me through my PhD process and opened numerous opportunities for my career during my PhD and after my PhD. During my Ph.D. program, I demonstrated excellent scientific knowledge and hard work, which led to my appointment as a laboratory technician and assistant lecturer. After completing my PhD programme, I was promoted to laboratory manager and offered a postdoctoral position. I recall that after completing my PhD program, while I was still working with him, I shared with him that I would like to take further steps to advance in my career and assume more responsibilities. He was very positive about it and supported me to proceed with the application. I then applied to Prof. Dr. Volker Presser at the Leibniz Institute for New Materials (INM) in Germany. After several interviews, I received a job offer as a Research Scientist in his Department. I will be forever grateful to him for offering and opening the opportunity for me to work in an international group with multiple international colleagues. When I joined the group, he advised me to apply for the Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) award, which would provide me with the opportunity to work as an independent researcher. He was also supportive of hosting me under the INM. Currently, I am working as an independent researcher through the AvH award and as a research scientist under his supervision. I will be forever grateful to my MSc supervisor, PhD supervisor, and current manager, as all of them have contributed significantly to my career and are the source of who I am today in this field.

What is the coolest project you have worked on and why?

I think my project on biomass recycling using cooked chicken bone wastes, which I was the first to report for supercapacitor applications. I developed this idea during the COVID-19 lockdown (April–June 2020) in Pretoria, South Africa. I collected the bones after eating chicken and processed them in the laboratory once the lockdown was over. It turned out to be the best idea in my research career, as I wrote a grant to utilize the material for battery applications and was successful.

What’s a time you felt immense pride in yourself / your work?

First, it was when I successfully defended my PhD viva voce after two years. Second, when I wrote a research proposal to secure funding for my research, I was awarded the Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) award. It was a significant achievement, as it is a prestigious award that offers me an exciting opportunity to continue my research independently in collaboration with my host at INM. Many esteemed scientists from all over the world and from different disciplines applied for this fellowship, of which only 20 to 25% were selected. I was delighted to be among the scientists selected for this award. And third, I was selected among 600 young scientists worldwide to participate in and contribute to the 74^th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting. I am deeply immersed in this opportunity, as meeting and engaging with Nobel Laureates and other scientists will expand my knowledge and skills.

What is a “day in the life” of you like?

My day usually starts with waking up at 6 am, doing a little stretching, and preparing for work. Upon arriving at the office, I will check my emails and then proceed with my daily tasks, which include attending scheduled meetings and seminars, as well as performing and supervising any assigned tasks. Depending on the plan of that day, I will then conduct experiments, analyze data, and write reports. I usually plan activities or work for the next day before I leave the office in the evening.

What are you seeking to accomplish in your career?

My goal is to expand my expertise in various groundbreaking technologies to provide innovative solutions that will touch humanity. To achieve this, I am committed to increasing my knowledge to address the core problems of lithium-sulfur batteries (Li-S). The development of innovative and environmentally friendly synthesis processes for engineering, the cathode materials for Li-S, and the characterization of these materials will provide sufficient information about the essential properties necessary for improving the development of cathode materials for Li-SB production. The progress and description of the suggested material will enhance the understanding of producing cathode materials in an economical, safe, and well-organized manner for future energy storage devices. This will contribute to reducing battery raw material costs, improving resource efficiency, and facilitating the discovery of alternative raw materials. In this regard, my knowledge will contribute to the general battery-operated industries. My research will have a direct impact on the community, and I will be one of the scientists who have made a positive impact on human life.

Delvina’s research provides sufficient information about the essential properties necessary for improving the development of cathode materials for Li-SB production.

What do you like to do when you’re not doing research?

I love being connected with nature, and I usually spend at least one day on a weekend going for a long hike. I enjoy cooking with my family and exploring various dishes from around the world. I also like traveling to explore the world.

What advice do you have for other women interested in science / in your discipline?

As a woman, I believe that everything we do significantly shapes our lives. Women are often seen as a minority in society, which can lead to a lack of motivation towards pursuing their goals and interests. However, I believe we can find satisfaction by doing what we love, which translates into great work. Personally, when I develop an interest in something, I cultivate self-motivation and confidence, pursue it, and make it happen. Self-motivation and pushing through boundaries are key to success. We should not be discouraged by failures and obstacles but instead use them as lessons to overcome challenges. Seeking advice from mentors, role models, family members, or anyone who can help is essential in navigating difficult situations.

In your opinion, what will be the next great breakthrough in science / in your discipline?

The most promising next-generation batteries are lithium-sulfur batteries, solid-state batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and graphene-based batteries. Each of these individual batteries has more benefits in terms of raw materials, electrolytes, separator, safety, and costs compared to a lithium-ion battery. They also have higher energy density and longer lifespans, suggesting their breakthroughs, and have already shown some promising performance for large-scale production. Companies are competing to bring them to the market.

What should be done to increase the number of female scientists and professors?

I believe this should start with the society surrounding us, which influences the role of women in different cultures. In some cultures, women’s voices are not considered when making decisions about important matters in the community, which creates tension for young girls and leads to a loss of confidence in pursuing science. During my schooling, I recall that we were told Physics and Chemistry were men’s subjects, not for women. So, I would recommend that the government establish a system within the school environment that supports young girls in pursuing careers in science. The support should go a long way from lower grades through university. The mentorship program should be linked at any stage of the early career, and those who show strong interest should be mentored closely to encourage them to overcome work culture discrimination and harassment by creating an inclusive environment, fostering recognition, and increasing visibility.