Raquel Saborano, 27, is currently working as an analytical chemist in the R&D department at Hovione, in Portugal. Her first steps in science were taken at the University of Aveiro, enrolling in a BSc in biochemistry, followed by a MSc with a focus in the clinical field. Succeeding this, her adventurous side took her to pursue a PhD abroad and she was able to spend time in the UK and Denmark to determine the application of NMR spectroscopy to study liver diseases. Being in a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network, led her to experience different research environments, cultures and fields of expertise.
THE INTERVIEW:
What was your dream profession as a child?
I always dreamed to pursue science!
What was your academic background and how important was it for your present/future?
Enrolling in a BSc in biochemistry gave me the best of my two favourite subjects: chemistry and biology. I believe that Grad School teaches us to how to think, how to face problems and how to solve them quickly.
If you could go back, what would you change in your career and academic life?
I wouldn't change a thing... I believe that no matter what path we choose, we will always end up doing what we like the most. Maybe I would experience Erasmus earlier since I always wanted to study abroad. Nevertheless, I did it for my PhD and that really opened my mind and made me a better person and a better professional.
Briefly, what does your research work consist of, and why did you choose this area?
At my current job I am still learning my responsibilities and facing the challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, so I will speak about my PhD research! During my PhD I was able to study the metabolic changes that occur during the progression of liver disease and that was really challenging. Being able to use complex analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy and combine it with medicine/biochemistry was really exciting. Being able to see science move forward it's what keeps me going.
In your opinion, what is the most stimulating thing in research VS the biggest challenges / difficulties in research? Did you ever imagine being where you are?
I think that it's a mixture of both: I think it's exciting that there's a world of opportunities, new fields, new challenges and that anything can happen. However, it's always difficult to face the unknown. I am in the industry at the moment for that same reason: try something new, something that's challenging to me but also that will teach me a million of new things. Never really thought about doing a specific job, but I am enjoying my journey so far.
What advice would you give to people who are thinking about going to study Biotechnology (or another area of science), to those who are studying, and to recent graduates?
To those who are starting: pay attention to what's around you, follow your older peers, talk to more experienced people and try to find what's "your thing". To those who are already enjoying the wonders of science: Never forget why you started! This is a great field to work, to innovate, there's always an opportunity to make a difference in the world.
We are grateful to Raquel Saborano for sharing her testimonial.
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