How an Iranian Industrial Engineer Secured a PhD Research Assistantship in Management, Business, and Economics at RWTH Aachen University

My name is Mina Farajiamiri, and I am originally from Iran. I hold a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering and am currently pursuing my PhD in Management, Business, and Economics (Wirtschaftswissenschaft) at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. My research focuses on optimizing renewable fuel supply chains. I decided to pursue further education in this field because of my passion for applying quantitative methods and data analytics to solve real-world challenges in energy systems and supply chains. I have always been fascinated by how mathematical modeling and optimization can help design more sustainable and efficient systems.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering at Bu-Ali Sina University, graduating with a GPA of 3.75/4 (American scale). I was then offered the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at the same university in the same field, where I graduated with distinction and a GPA of 4.0/4. This strong academic foundation equipped me to transition seamlessly into a research-intensive PhD program focused on tackling complex problems.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to RWTH Aachen University?

RWTH Aachen University offers programs taught in English at the doctoral level. This was an important factor for me, as it allowed me to fully focus on research without needing to reach a C1/B2 level in German before starting. However, I take courses to improve my proficiency for daily life.

What Drew You to Choose Germany to Pursue Your Degree?

Germany stood out for several reasons: its strong academic reputation, particularly in engineering and applied sciences; its leading role in renewable energy research; and the availability of affordable or tuition-free higher education. Moreover, Germany’s emphasis on interdisciplinary and industry-linked research aligned perfectly with my career goals.

How Did You Overcome the Language Barrier, and What Role Do You Think Language Plays as an International Student in Germany?

Although my PhD program is in English, daily life in Germany does involve German. I took language courses and continued practicing after moving here. As an international student, knowing the local language makes integration easier, especially when dealing with administrative tasks or socializing outside academia. While it is possible to manage in Germany with English alone in academic settings, basic German proficiency is highly beneficial.

What Unique Academic Opportunities Have You Had in Germany That You Might Not Have Experienced Elsewhere?

My PhD at RWTH Aachen has given me access to cutting-edge research facilities and the chance to work on large-scale interdisciplinary projects like the Fuel Science Center (a DFG cluster of excellence). I collaborate closely with both academic and industry partners, attend international conferences, and contribute to high-impact publications.

What Were Some of the Challenges You Faced as an International Student in Germany, Particularly Regarding Living Costs or Part-time Work Opportunities?

Adjusting to the cost of living in Germany, particularly housing in Aachen, was initially challenging. As a PhD student employed as a research assistant, I had a work contract that covered my living expenses. For Master’s students, balancing part-time work with studies can be challenging due to the demanding nature of technical programs, but student jobs (HiWi positions) are available at universities.

Looking Back, Would You Recommend Studying in Germany for International Students Seeking Affordable Higher Education? Why or Why Not?

Yes, I would highly recommend Germany to international students. The combination of high-quality education, affordable (or free) tuition, and excellent research infrastructure is hard to match. However, I would advise future students to prepare for cultural and administrative differences and to start learning German early to make integration smoother.

How is (was) Your Experience at RWTH Aachen University? 

RWTH Aachen offers a highly stimulating academic environment with excellent resources for research and innovation. The international community here is also vibrant, which makes it easier to connect with peers from all over the world.

How Do You Rate RWTH Aachen University Academically and Why?

Academically, RWTH Aachen ranks among Europe’s top technical universities. Its strength lies in combining theoretical rigor with practical application and fostering collaboration across disciplines and industries.

How Does RWTH Aachen University Support International Students? 

RWTH provides good support through its International Office, language courses, and orientation programs. However, students need to be proactive in seeking help with housing and administrative processes, as these can still be daunting for newcomers.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

At the doctoral level, all my work and communication are in English. However, Bachelor’s and some Master’s programs are still primarily in German.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing German?

For research-based or English-taught programs, students won’t face academic problems without knowing German. But outside academia, some knowledge of German is essential for day-to-day life.