“I’m amazed by how much Sweden contributes to the world through breakthrough innovations for the country’s small size."

Portrait of Ravi Chadalavada.

Ravi Chadalavada, a doctoral student in computer science, is behind the innovation QT-PIE, which combines artificial intelligence with eye-tracking. The technology can be used in many ways, such as support in driver education, driver’s license testing, or to help doctors to make decisions about a patient’s suitability in traffic. Ravi Chadalavada was recently accepted to an incubator program in Silicon Valley, REACH, receiving expert help to develop his innovation further.

Sweden’s strong innovative force is one of the reasons why Ravi Chadalavada chose to come here. But an interesting doctoral student position in computer science led him to choose Örebro University. Although he was a bit anxious to move to Örebro after living in big cities such as Chennai, Boston, and Tokyo, he admits it’s a decision he’s never regretted.

I believe there’s something unique about the university and the city that attracts great talent – and keeps them here. This must be Örebro University’s secret to success.

How is it that you came to work at the Örebro University?

“I moved to Sweden to do my M.Sc. at Chalmers when I found a super interesting doctoral student position at Örebro University. While I was still doing my thesis, I spoke with the supervisor to investigate the possibility of arranging for a research position that accommodates a Master’s thesis and PhD work hybrid. And it’s that flexibility that is a very welcoming sign for me at Örebro University.”

Why do you like working at Örebro University?

“I like that it’s not too big or too small. I believe this creates possibilities to make good quality connections across the disciplines. I also like that it’s quite international. We have researchers from more than 15 countries in our lab alone.”

What’s best about living in Örebro?

“I think that the size of the university and the city complement each other very well. But, like the university, the city is also not too big and not too small – and I like that. Having lived in huge cities like Chennai, Boston, and Tokyo, I was a bit anxious before moving to Örebro. But I felt at home here, right away. I believe there’s something unique about the university and the city that attracts great talent – and keeps them here. This must be Örebro University’s secret to success.”

And what’s best about living in Sweden?

“I like how the country is organised, with a rather flat structure and not a big emphasis on hierarchy. Despite the country’s size, I’m amazed by how much Sweden meaningfully contributes to the world through breakthrough innovations. That was one of the reasons why I chose to come to Sweden, and I’ve never regretted my decision. I’m delighted and proud that I’ve gotten a chance to be a part of it!”