Didier Garray

As principal engineer at Sirris, I support companies from concept to launch, spotting relevant funding calls (EU, national, regional), co-writing proposals (ideation, budgeting, submission), and ensuring seamless follow-up through to project delivery.

With a strong background in advanced materials and manufacturing, I track innovation trends to recommend smart, tailored strategies.

Need help navigating funding or boosting internal capacity? I can structure your project, align the budget, and accelerate development, from grant applications to prototyping and tech monitoring.

Expertise

• Advanced composites and conductive polymers
• Numerical simulation (topology optimisation, large-deformation analysis)
• Innovative 3D printing (non-planar paths, continuous-fibre reinforcement)

Work experience

I started my journey at Sirris in 1993 as a project engineer specialised in numerical simulation (composites, large-deformation analysis, topological optimization). Over time, I broadened my focus to include advanced materials and process development, from nanomaterials to metamaterials. I’ve led initiatives in digitalisation and robotics, and developed a custom 3D printer that prints along non-planar paths with continuous fibres. A programmer at heart, I now explore how AI can generate scripts and tools to simplify workflows and boost productivity.

Studies

• Electromechanical (Aerospace) Engineering – University of Liège (1990)

Professional motto

"Success is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration." – Thomas Edison

Fun fact  

Although I’m slowly stepping back from racket sports, I still manage to challenge younger opponents! I love hiking, fine food and wine, and spending time with good board games like the Whist, The Game, The Crew and Top Ten.