At the DPI Autumn Meeting 2025, we asked both industrial partners and academic researchers: “Why do you value being part of the DPI community?”
The responses we received were thoughtful and genuine. They highlight how DPI enables industry to apply research outcomes directly into their own innovation processes, how PhD researchers grow through interaction with experienced peers, and how the entire ecosystem benefits as young talent transitions into industry roles.
Here’s what they shared, in their own words:
For us, DPI is a cost-effective way to be active in a broad academic network, to help shape the research agenda, and to see broader trends in polymer science. It’s also valuable to meet and follow talented young people for career opportunities within our company.
Erwin Houben, R&D Manager Science & Digitisation at Envalior
What I really value about the DPI community, is how supportive it is. We share experiences, learn from others’ projects, and get meaningful feedback from people with more experience than us. It’s inspiring to meet others who share the same ambition and goals. We help each other grow, both personally and professionally. I’m really happy to be part of it.
Ifrah Sheikh, PhD student working on the SLUGGER project
DPI has a strong international reputation and a global network of leading polymer scientists. For KINGFA, this is not only a valuable scientific resource but also a strategic opportunity. As we work to decarbonise and expand beyond China, we need both technical insight and international visibility. DPI gives us access to high-level expertise in areas like polymer physics, mechanics, and recycling, where we see limitations locally. At the same time, it offers us a respected platform where we can be seen and recognised by international partners. We are proud to be part of the DPI community and see it as a long-term collaboration.
Lily Peng, Kingfa
I’ve been connected to DPI since 2000, and what continues to stand out is the way it brings together peers, young talents, and industry. It’s one of the rare places where you find truly industry-driven, fundamental research with direct relevance to what we do internally. The integration of DPI project results into our own R&D is seamless, which makes the collaboration incredibly valuable.
Nic Friederichs, Research fellow at Sabic
Being part of the DPI community gave me the chance to meet people from all around the world and work with others from very different backgrounds. I also got valuable insights from the industrial partners I’m collaborating with, which really helped my PhD project. It’s been great to see all these people at the DPI Autumn Meeting.
Ilaria Squillante, PhD student working on the PER-MANENT project
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