"A refreshing change of perspective in a familiar field, shaped by a different research environment and culture"

Martijn Melissen, from the Wageningen University & Research (Netherlands) spent a month on a research exchange at the University of Burgos (UBU).

1.  What’s your name and where are you from?

My name is Martijn Melissen and I’m originally from a village nearby Eindhoven in the Netherlands. Currently I live in Utrecht.

2.  Which organization do you work for?

I work for Wageningen University & Research within the Systems and Synthetic Biology group. Additionally, I work for UNLOCK at the FAIR Data Platform.

3.  Where did you do your secondment?

In Spain, Burgos at the University of Burgos (UBU).

About your experience:

4.  What motivated you to take part in this exchange?

I was curious about the workings and dynamics within a large-scale project such as BIOREM. Apart from that, I’ve been interested in exploring international research settings and witnessing how it compares to my norm.

Spending a cold winter month significantly closer to the equator was also a big plus.

5.  How would you describe your secondment experience in one sentence?

A refreshing change of perspective in a familiar field, shaped by a different research environment, working rhythm, and culture.

6.  What project or task did you enjoy the most during your stay?

Giving training on and helping out with (bio)informatic tools. I think it’s nice to see things click for people and realize things may not be so foreign or difficult as they were expecting.

7.  Did you learn anything new or unexpected? What was it?

I got an unexpected lab tour and learned a lot about various activities of UBU, from experimental setups of insect gathering to compression tests of construction materials.

8.  What surprised you most about working in a different country or with a new team?

Probably the working culture, I’m used to set times of meetings, scheduling around people’s availabilities. There was less of that here which allowed for more spontaneous interactions and dealing with problems coming up on an ad hoc basis. People are also very helpful and warm here in Spain.

Life outside work:

9.  What did you like the most about the place where you stayed?

The scenery is really nice, I’m very used to modern architecture and flat surroundings. It was a constant joy to appreciate the environment during walks, activities, and commutes.

10.  Do you have a fun or memorable story from your secondment?

I had my first time skiing experience! The intro course was fully in Spanish and so afterwards I was on top of a piste without really any idea of how to steer or brake. But well what do you know, I’ve survived and live to tell the tale (afterwards my colleagues kindly taught me the basics).

Looking ahead:

11.  How do you think this experience will help you in your work or career?

I will be able to signal international experience. I’ve always been interested in doing work activities abroad, so this will hopefully help me achieve such activities yet again.

12.  What advice would you give to someone about to do a similar exchange?

Be proactive both socially and professionally. Engage with people, say yes to invitations and opportunities, even if they are things you typically would not do. You’ve already stepped out of your comfort zone so embrace the unfamiliarity of the experience.