ICE lab welcomes a new PhD student Fariza Sabit
© 2024 EPFL / Purev
Fariza Sabit joined the ICE lab in February 2024 as a Ph.D. student to advance research in personalized Energy Expenditure prediction. Enthusiastically, she recounts her personal background and experiences in Switzerland, highlighting her impression about both the ICE lab and the Smart Living Lab.
1. What is your background, and how did you join the ICE lab?
My background spans various disciplines: I hold a BSc in Mathematics, an MSc in Cognitive Science, and I'm currently pursuing a PhD in Energy. Before joining the ICE lab, I worked as a research assistant and completed my Master's thesis at the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics, Germany, focusing on personalized thermal comfort models. During my time there, a colleague informed me about an open position at the ICE lab that aligned perfectly with my research interests in human thermal comfort. Recognizing the synergy between the position's requirements and my background, I applied, and well, here we are!
2. What is the focus of your research, and how does your prior research experience fit the project?
Ever wondered how our bodies utilize energy throughout the day? Energy expenditure models serve as a guiding tool, akin to a roadmap for our metabolism, offering insights into energy allocation and usage. Traditional models rely on aggregated data from diverse individuals, yielding a generalized estimate. However, we're all distinct in our habits and rhythms, underscoring the importance of personalized energy expenditure models. These models take into account individual nuances—such as habits, routines, and biological rhythms—to provide a more precise understanding. In my research, I strive to enhance these models by integrating personalized and dynamic elements, leveraging analytical and data-driven techniques. Building on my experience with personalized thermal comfort models, I intend to incorporate additional biometric data and elevate our comprehension of personalized energy expenditure modeling.
3. What is your impression of living in Switzerland?
Living in Switzerland has been a train lover's dream come true. With all my love for Germany, I must admit, the trains here actually run on time. I'm particularly smitten with the route from Fribourg to Lausanne – where I get to enjoy stunning views of Lake Geneva from above! It's safe to say, it's been the best commute I've ever had.
4. What are your impressions of the EPFL and Smart Living Lab?
The campus clothes itself in impressive architecture, but it's the people who give it a soul. The atmosphere is electric, buzzing with energy and excitement that's absolutely contagious. Being part of such a supportive community, where creativity and innovation thrive, is incredibly inspiring. But you know what steals the show for me? It's the Smart Living Lab, my daily playground. The SLL community is a vibrant tapestry of brilliant minds engaged in fascinating research. I feel fortunate to be part of an amazing lab under the guidance of Prof. Dolaana Khovalyg - always ready to collaborate, share ideas, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. And I must give a special shoutout to our incredible administrator Teresa, whose efficiency and effectiveness inspire me too!