New member at LSMS

© 2026 EPFL
We are pleased to welcome Dr Pavan Nanduri, who joined the LSMS on May 1st.
He graduated from Indian Institute of Technology, with a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering in 2025.
A few questions to know better about Pavan :
What is your field of research?
At LSMS, my research focuses on the fragmentation of materials under high-velocity impacts, with potential applications in space research. Using numerical methods, I aim to better understand the complex dynamic fracture and fragmentation processes that occur in materials and how debris propagates over time under such extreme loading conditions.
Why did you choose this field, and what are you particularly enthusiastic about?
Computational simulations provide valuable insight into complex mechanical processes that are often difficult to investigate through experiments alone. During my MS and PhD, I worked on numerical modelling of fragmentation in granular materials, particularly rocks. This motivated my interest in developing numerical algorithms that are sufficiently accurate and robust to be "good enough" to capture the underlying mechanics of material behaviour. Ultimately, combining experiments with computational tools can help us better understand how materials fail under dynamics loads, contributing to improved designs and safer engineering practices in different fields.
Outside the lab, what do you enjoy doing most?
Outside the lab, I enjoy playing cricket, traveling, and spending time with friends by playing video and board games. I’m also looking forward to exploring Switzerland and experiencing its landscapes and culture.