Dear Prof.

Stark

Good afternoon

First, I would like to introduce myself before I get to the point of my email.

My name is Rega Permana, I am a master graduate from Pohang University of

Science and Technology (POSTECH) in South Korea majoring in Environmental
Science and Engineering. Right now I'm working at Surya University in Indonesia as
a lecturer in Biotechnology Department.

Since my master study, I’ve developed a strong interest towards the work of soft
materials preparation, especially those involving biomimetic concept, and their
potential application for handling environmental issues. I found your group
information from the ETH Zurich website and had a chance to explore your research
area. As I went deep to it and read some of your previous publication, I became
really interested and strongly motivated to take the chance to contact you for further
inquiry.

I’ve been working on water treatment optimization using Tunicate-inspired materials

from pyrogallol-modified biopolymer (chitin) for my thesis project. I utilized the
prepared material for precious metal sequestration (Gold) and toxic heavy metal
removal (Chromium) which two have been published in scientific SCI paper (ACS
applied materials and interface, Chemical Engineering Journal) where I served as
the first author (equal contribution).

In this regard, I would like to take this opportunity to ask for the possibility of me
joining your research group as a PhD student. I believe my research experience and
knowledge will develop to be more valuable and meaningful under your supervision.
Im aiming for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship which will open around
later this year. I have attached my latest curriculum vitae for your further inspection
of my candidacy.

I would be really glad to hear any response from you.

Thank you very much for your time.

Best regards,
Rega