Welcome to the third episode of "Voices of DePoly"! In this series, we unveil the stories behind the faces driving innovation at DePoly. Ever wanted to know how it feels to be part of the team, daily routines and what got them to join DePoly in the first place? For this third episode, we are excited to introduce Pelin Uran – Head of R&D, as she takes us on a journey through her role, what motivated her to join the team, and especially, what keeps her curious in her field as learning never stops, even after leaving the classrooms!
Who are you and what is your background?
I am Pelin and I am a chemical engineer by training. I got my PhD degree from EPFL in Chemical Sciences and Engineering in 2021. I am the Head of R&D at DePoly, leading the research activities for the development of novel plastic recycling technologies.
How did you hear about DePoly?
I did my PhD in the same research group with DePoly co-founders Sam, Bardiya and Chris. I witnessed all the steps of DePoly’s foundation, and I wanted to be a part of this journey after completing my PhD. Here I am, writing these sentences from the research lab that we set up all together.
How long have you been with DePoly?
I have been working at DePoly for 3 years. I was one of the first members of the company and have had the opportunity to follow its exciting growth from day one.
What do you do on a daily basis? What does a day in your shoes look like?
Development of advanced recycling for different plastics, as well as scale-up of our PET recycling technology for our showcase plant in Monthey, have been my main focus on a daily basis. My time is generally divided between experiment design, project management, and meetings with internal and external stakeholders.
What do you like about your job? For example Specific tasks or projects
My job requires active thinking and constant curiosity. This is in the nature of research, but it is also crucial for bringing the success in the laboratory to the market. I am in close contact with different teams on a daily basis and this is somethingI enjoy a lot.
What bring you motivation in your activities?
Knowing that all the tests that start with a spark of curiosity and on small scale in the lab can be translated into a successful business case, thanks to the team work of all DePoly members.
How do you feel what you do at DePoly contributes to a more sustainable future?
Circularity in plastics is crucial and we have to find a sustainable way to make it real. Our daily activities at DePoly are the stones we put together as we build the path to reach the target of “circular economy”. When the path is complete, we can get one step closer to the realization of a sustainable future.
Any advice for potential future DePoly employees?
If you want to be apart of plastic recycling journey and experience a multi-disciplinary and culturally diverse startup environment during its growth phase, DePoly is the right place for you. Please check out our open positions and contact us at career@depoly.co.
What would you tell your younger self from 3 years ago, knowing what you know today?
Learning doesn’t have to stop (and actually shouldn’t) when you leave the classroom! There is always a room for growth and improvement, and it is in every aspect of life.
DePoly’s technology recycles unsorted, dirty PET waste into virgin-grade raw materials. Those PET precursors, PTA and MEG, are used by the industry to produce new plastics without the need for fossil fuels, while diverting valuable materials from landfills and incineration.
DePoly SA –
HQ
Rue de l'Industrie 23, 1950 Sion, Valais, Switzerland
DePoly SA –
Showcase Plant
Route de l'Ile au Bois, 1870 Monthey, Valais, Switzerland
DePoly’s technology recycles unsorted, dirty PET waste into virgin-grade raw materials. Those PET precursors, PTA and MEG, are used by the industry to produce new plastics without the need for fossil fuels, while diverting valuable materials from landfills and incineration.
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