Since January 2024, Dr. Sunil Kumar Sharma has been serving as the Deputy Chair of Rail Vehicle Technology. We interviewed him about his first experiences in Dresden.

Dr. Sunil Kumar Sharma has joined as Chair of Rail Vehicle Technology at TU Dresden, having previously worked as an Assistant Professor in the School of Technology at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya in Vadodara, Gujarat (India). He earned his PhD from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, focusing on "Modeling and Analysis of Indian Rail Vehicles." Following his PhD, he undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at Changwon National University in South Korea. We are delighted to welcome him to TU Dresden!

Diehl (D): Germany especially Dresden is your first career move outside Asia, right? What motivated you to come to TU Dresden?

Dr. Sharma (S): Yes, indeed. The opportunity to join TU Dresden was very compelling for several reasons. Firstly, TU Dresden has an excellent reputation in the field of engineering, particularly in transportation and mobility research, which aligns perfectly with my expertise in rail vehicle dynamics. Secondly, Dresden itself is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a high quality of life, making it an attractive place to live and work. Lastly, the chance to collaborate with renowned researchers and contribute to cutting-edge research projects was a major motivating factor for me.

D: Which areas do you focus on in your research?

S: My research primarily focuses on rail vehicle dynamics, encompassing various aspects such as ride comfort, safety, energy efficiency, and dynamic behavior. I investigate advanced control strategies, innovative suspension systems, and novel technologies to enhance the performance and sustainability of rail transportation systems.

D: In the past you received several awards for your research, for instance for papers at international conferences and you were listed as one of the world's top 2% scientists between 2020 and 2023. Which topics have you focused on in your research? Have the results been applied further in science or in the industry?

S: Throughout my career, I have concentrated on topics such as wheel-rail contact mechanics, vehicle-track interaction, active suspension systems, and condition monitoring of rail vehicles. The outcomes of my research have been instrumental in advancing the understanding of rail vehicle dynamics and have been applied in both academia and industry. For instance, my work has contributed to the development of more efficient and reliable rail vehicles, leading to improvements in ride quality, safety, and operational performance.

D: You completed your doctorate in the field of Rail Vehicle Dynamics. Was this your first contact with transportation and mobility?

S: Yes, my doctoral studies provided me with my first in-depth exposure to transportation and mobility, specifically within the realm of rail vehicle dynamics. Since then, I have continued to delve deeper into this fascinating field, exploring various facets of rail transportation and contributing to its advancement through research and innovation.

D: What fascinates you about transportation and mobility in general?

S: Transportation and mobility play a pivotal role in shaping our modern society, facilitating economic growth, social connectivity, and sustainable development. What fascinates me the most is the intricate interplay between technology, infrastructure, and human behavior that characterizes transportation systems. The ability to address complex challenges and create innovative solutions that improve the efficiency, safety, and accessibility of transportation networks is what drives my passion for this field.

D: You grew up in India and have already worked in South Korea. How do these transportation systems differ from the German system?

S: Indeed, I have had the opportunity to experience diverse transportation systems across different countries. Each system has its unique characteristics shaped by factors such as geography, culture, and historical development. In India, for instance, the transportation network is vast and diverse, encompassing a mix of traditional modes such as railways and roadways alongside modern infrastructure like metro systems. In contrast, South Korea boasts a highly efficient and technologically advanced transportation system, characterized by extensive high-speed rail networks and well-integrated public transit systems.

Compared to these, the German transportation system, particularly in cities like Dresden, is known for its reliability, punctuality, and emphasis on sustainability. The integration of various modes of transportation, including trains, trams, buses, and bicycles, offers commuters a wide range of options for travel. Additionally, Germany's emphasis on research and innovation has led to the development of cutting-edge technologies and practices in areas such as railway engineering and sustainable mobility.

D: Have you already got to know some colleagues of the faculty? Perhaps also in interdisciplinary fields?

S: Yes, I have had the pleasure of meeting several colleagues within the faculty, both within my own department and in interdisciplinary fields. The collaborative environment at TU Dresden fosters interdisciplinary research and encourages cross-disciplinary partnerships, which I find immensely stimulating and rewarding. I look forward to further engaging with my colleagues and exploring opportunities for collaboration on research projects that transcend traditional boundaries.

D: What should students of the Faculty know about you? What they can expect from you?

S: Students can expect me to be approachable, passionate, and committed to fostering their academic and professional growth. I am deeply invested in providing students with a supportive learning environment, where they can explore their interests, develop their skills, and pursue their aspirations. I encourage open dialogue, critical thinking, and hands-on learning experiences to empower students to become innovative leaders in their respective fields.

D: How do you think you can contribute your expertise to the chair of Rail Vehicle Technology? Do you already have plans or a concept you want to implement?

S: I believe my expertise in rail vehicle dynamics and my research experience in advanced control systems can significantly contribute to the chair of Rail Vehicle Technology at TU Dresden. I am particularly interested in exploring the application of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and predictive analytics to enhance the performance, safety, and sustainability of rail transportation systems. Additionally, I aim to establish collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders and research institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange and technology transfer, ultimately driving innovation and excellence in rail vehicle technology.

D: Do you have a motto in life? If so, which one?

S: "Continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration are the keys to success." This motto reflects my belief in the importance of lifelong learning, creativity, and teamwork in achieving personal and professional fulfillment. I strive to embody these principles in my work every day, seeking out new opportunities for growth, pushing the boundaries of knowledge, and working collaboratively with others to achieve shared goals.

D: Did you already had the possibility to explore Dresden or the surrounding area? What stands out to you?

S: Yes, I have had the opportunity to explore Dresden and its surrounding areas, and I have been thoroughly impressed by the city's rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. The architectural marvels such as the Zwinger Palace and the Frauenkirche are testament to Dresden's storied past and architectural brilliance. Moreover, the picturesque landscapes along the Elbe River and the lush greenery of the Dresden Heath offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Overall, Dresden's unique blend of history, culture, and natural splendor makes it a truly enchanting place to live and work.

D: Have you already tried any typically German dishes or drinks? Did you like them?

S: Yes, I have had the pleasure of sampling some traditional German dishes and beverages, and I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed them. From hearty classics like schnitzel and sauerbraten to mouthwatering delicacies like currywurst and bratwurst, German cuisine never fails to delight the taste buds. Additionally, I have developed a fondness for German drink, particularly the rich and flavorful varieties brewed locally in Dresden and the surrounding regions. Overall, my culinary experiences in Germany have been nothing short of delightful, and I look forward to exploring more of the country's gastronomic delights.

D: Apart from your professional duties, what are you looking forward to?

S: Outside of my professional duties, I am looking forward to immersing myself in the vibrant cultural scene of Dresden and exploring everything this dynamic city has to offer. Whether it's attending classical concerts at the Semperoper, strolling through the charming streets of the Altstadt, or sampling local cuisine at quaint.

 

We would like to thank Dr. Sharma for his time and wish him all the best professionally and personally!

Originalautor

Interview: Tim Diehl / Dekanat FVW

Dr. Sunil Kumar Sharma

Chair of Tracked Vehicle Technology

Phone: +49 351 463-36585

Mail: sunil_kumar.sharma@​tu-dresden.de

About Sunil K. Sharma

Dr. Sunil K. Sharma hails from India, where he completed his undergraduate studies in mechanical engineering at F.E.T Agra College in 2010. He then pursued a Master's degree in Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing at the National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, and went on to earn his PhD in Rail Vehicle Dynamics from the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee in 2017.

Throughout his career, Dr. Sharma has served as an assistant professor at various universities. His contributions to the field have placed him among the top 2% of scientists in rail vehicle technology, earning him numerous accolades for his work.

Main Research Areas

Dynamics of rail vehicles, in particular ride comfort, safety, energy efficiency and dynamic behavior