Yan Karavayeu: Understanding what private fusion companies are doing
Yan Karavayeu: “Understanding what private fusion companies are doing has been fascinating.”
Fusion needs more people with a variety of skills to grow the industry to deliver low-carbon energy to all. For anyone interested in fusion jobs, or the motivations of young people coming into the field, here we introduce you to Fusion Energy Insights’ 2024 summer interns.
Meet Yan Karavayeu
What are you currently studying/working on?
I am currently going into my 4th year studying Physics at the University of Birmingham, with an interest in nuclear physics and cold atoms physics. I spent my 3rd year project working on designing a gravity gradiometer that has potential for being used for navigation in underwater vehicles, where normal GPS can’t penetrate down.
Why did you want to do an internship with Fusion Energy Insights Advisory Services?
I wanted to work with Fusion Energy Insights and specifically with Fusion Advisory Services, because I wanted to work more on the business side of fusion, rather than the research side. I wanted to have a wider understanding of the current landscape of fusion and see the big picture that others wouldn’t have the opportunity to see if they focused on research. I wanted to also provide value to private companies in a broader sense than just developing a small component that would go into their reactor.
What have you found interesting and exciting about working in fusion so far?
The most interesting is just seeing how varied each company in fusion is. They all have their own ideas and ways about trying to achieve net energy gain. Learning about what each one is doing and seeing why they believe it’s the best method has been fascinating!
Share something about yourself and what you do outside of work.
Outside of work, I’m a physically active guy. The sport I’m most passionate about right now is climbing (bouldering specifically), climbing around v6-v7. When I’m not climbing (recovering from sore fingers), I like to go to the gym, play badminton, hike and appreciate nature. I’m basically out of my house more than I am in it.
Another big passion of mine is food! I love to cook, bake, improving on the many skills required to make delicious food, and I try anything out at least once!