The Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia (FTUI), welcomed an honorary visit from Professor Emeritus Alberto Coronas of the University of Rovira, Tarragona, Spain, as part of an initiative to explore research collaboration opportunities and the development of an industrial PhD program (April 21). This visit is part of Prof. Coronas’ tour in Indonesia, following his guest lecture at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta.
In a warm and productive discussion with Prof. Dr. Ir. Muhammad Idrus Alhamid, Prof. Coronas shared ideas on strengthening synergies between Indonesian academia and research institutions in Spain, particularly in refrigeration systems and heat pump technology. He introduced the industrial PhD model, where doctoral students not only pursue academic studies but also engage directly in research based on the needs of partner companies.
Prof. Coronas also highlighted the successful collaborations involving Indonesian master’s students who are now pursuing doctoral studies in Spain, including joint research efforts with Dr. Sahlan and the Rector of UI, Prof. Dr. Ir. Heri Hermansyah, S.T., M.Eng. These partnerships have paved the way for the development of globally oriented technical human resources.
“My discussion with Prof. Idrus was very constructive and opened up many opportunities for future research collaboration. We see great potential to develop thermal technology solutions that are relevant to Indonesia’s tropical climate while promoting student involvement in real-world industrial research at an international standard,” said Prof. Alberto Coronas.
As a leading expert in absorption refrigeration technology, Prof. Coronas also presented the latest innovations in the development of heat pump systems capable of delivering both cooling and heating simultaneously—a technology highly relevant to tropical climates like Indonesia’s.
“Prof. Coronas not only brought academic insights but also opened doors to international collaboration through his networks with global institutions such as the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR) Paris, broadening the research horizons for FTUI’s academic community,” said Prof. Dr. Ir. Muhammad Idrus Alhamid.
“Prof. Coronas’ visit marks a significant momentum to strengthen international collaboration, particularly in the development of applicable industrial PhD programs. We warmly welcome the opportunity for research cooperation that can drive technological innovation in energy and thermal systems, while creating space for FTUI students to engage in the global research ecosystem,” concluded FTUI Dean, Prof. Kemas Ridwan Kurniawan, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D.
Looking ahead, Prof. Coronas plans a follow-up meeting this coming Saturday with Professor Hidroos and an industry representative to further develop ideas and discuss a proposed research contract. He also proposed that a formal cooperation agreement be signed soon between the partner company and the university, and encouraged Indonesian teams to participate in the upcoming International Poly Engineering Conference, which will be held this year in Turkey.
The entire discussion reflects a shared commitment to strengthening academic-industry networks, facilitating technology transfer, and nurturing Indonesian research talent on the global stage.
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Public Communications Office
Faculty of Engineering Universitas Indonesia
