Stress-Testing Resilience: An MSCA Postdoc Journey in Manufacturing AI with Tanel Aruväli

In this episode of EURAXESS Smart Talks, we sit down with Dr. Tanel Aruväli, an MSCA postdoctoral fellow originally from Estonia (TalTech), now researching at the University of Malta. Tanel shares the story behind his research on simulation-based stress testing for resilience assessment in manufacturing companies — explaining what "resilience" really means for a factory floor using a simple ruler analogy, and how VUCA-era disruptions (geopolitical tension, supply chain shocks, energy crises) make this work more relevant than ever.Beyond the science, Tanel opens up about the practical side of an MSCA mobility: choosing where to go with a family in tow, what makes a good supervisor, how his proposal evolved through multiple rounds of feedback, and where AI tools do (and don't) belong in grant writing. He also reflects candidly on relocating to Malta with his children, navigating a new school system, and what comes next after the fellowship — ERC grants, commercialization, or staying in academia.A grounded, honest conversation for any researcher weighing a mobility move or preparing an MSCA application. Key Topics CoveredWhat "resilience" means in manufacturing, and how stress testing/simulation is used to assess itThe VUCA framework and current disruptions affecting manufacturing (geopolitics, supply chains, energy, inflation)Choosing a mobility destination: balancing family, institution/equipment, and supervisor fitThe supervisor's role in shaping and validating an MSCA proposalStructuring a successful MSCA application (excellence, impact, implementation)Using AI/LLM tools responsibly in proposal writing — where they help and where they don'tRelocating internationally with a family: schooling, timing, and language considerationsCareer paths after an MSCA fellowship: ERC grants, commercialization, or academic continuationSTEM vs. social sciences/humanities industry collaboration opportunitiesQuestion Timestamps01:27 – Can you tell us about your research topic and how you decided to apply for the MSCA postdoctoral fellowship?04:22 – What was the hardest part of deciding where to go for your mobility?05:58 – How did your supervisor help you during the mobility process?09:31 – What was your approach to a successful application — was excellence, impact, or implementation the hardest part?12:49 – What's your experience with AI tools in proposal writing, and how can they be used ethically while keeping the proposal human-led?15:14 – You moved to Malta with your family — what were the challenges and opportunities for them?18:05 – What are your career plans after this mobility?Send us a message!