A graduate of the University of Liège, Jean-David Caprace has pursued an international academic career. Now Academic Director of COPPE/UFRJ (Instituto Alberto Luiz Coimbra de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa em Engenharia) in Brazil, he conducts innovative research in naval and ocean engineering, particularly in artificial intelligence applied to the maritime sector and the decarbonization of transport. His career path, marked by the rigor and scientific excellence acquired at ULiège, has enabled him to meet complex challenges while seizing the opportunities offered by an international environment.
Could you briefly describe your academic and professional career after graduating from ULiège?
After obtaining my doctorate at the University of Liège under the supervision of Professor Philippe Rigo, I pursued an academic career that led me to teach and conduct research at several universities. My experience finally led me to Brazil, where I have been a professor in the field of naval and ocean engineering for the last ten years. Currently, I am also Academic Director of COPPE/UFRJ, a leading engineering institution in Brazil. My career has been shaped by a constant desire to contribute to the advancement of marine research, with strong inspiration drawn from the rigor and passion passed on by my peers.
What are your main current research activities and projects in Brazil?
In Brazil, my research activities focus on the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to problems in the maritime sector. I am working on projects such as the prediction of hull corrosion on offshore platforms, the detection of anomalies in pipelines, and the analysis of underwater images from autonomous vehicles (AUVs). Another aspect of my research focuses on the decarbonization of international shipping. I analyze best practices for the adoption of alternative fuels and energy-saving devices, with the aim of reducing the sector's greenhouse gas emissions.
What challenges and opportunities have you encountered working in the academic field in Brazil?
Working in the academic field in Brazil involves certain challenges, such as the lack of stable funding for research and the slowness of administrative processes. However, there are also considerable opportunities. Brazil has a very dynamic industrial sector, with major companies such as Petrobras, which is increasingly investing in the energy transition, and Vale, a major player in iron ore extraction. These collaborations enable us to work on concrete issues that have a direct impact on the economy and the environment.
How has your training at l'ULiège contributed to your career? Are there any skills or experiences acquired at ULiège that have particularly helped you?
My training at the University of Liège was decisive for my career. The in-depth technical skills I acquired, along with scientific rigor, enabled me to tackle complex engineering challenges. In particular, learning data mining during my time at ULiège made all the difference. These skills enabled me to embark on the analysis of large datasets, a key element for the optimization of ocean systems and for my work in artificial intelligence.
Would you have any advice for ULiège students and recent graduates wishing to pursue an international career, particularly in Brazil?
For students and recent graduates wishing to pursue an international career, I strongly recommend being open to new experiences and seizing opportunities, even if they seem far from your comfort zone. Learning the local language is crucial to integrating and maximizing your chances of success, especially in a country like Brazil. Last but not least, I'd be happy to help any Uliège students or recent graduates who would like further advice or information on an international career, particularly in Brazil.
During the Belgian Economic Mission to Brazil, a delegation from ULiège met with Jean-David Caprace at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ).
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