• What do you like most about working on SERSing? 

The SERSing project is a big and international project that combines different expertise areas (e.g. security/defense systems, computer science, chemistry, physics, statistics, IT, nanoscience and many others) with the great objective of contributing with public vigilance through the direct application of scientific developments. As a scientist, it is exciting to be part of such a project, as it gives me the opportunity to work not only in my expertise field but also allows me to learn about other fields and explore other knowledge areas. Furthermore, it is a scientists’ dream to be able to see their research being useful to society. It amazes me that this project will eventually be implemented in daily life and aid security workers to save lives and secure public health from chemical threats.  

• What is the coolest thing about your field? 

It is the fact that I work with nanostructured materials and nanoparticles. That is, particles that are in the nanoscale. For a comparison, they are 50 thousand times smaller than a human hair. It is beyond what we could imagine to be able to precisely manipulate a few decades ago. I can use these nanomaterials to detect chemical molecules in an extremely low concentration that would not be detected easily by our conventional equipment otherwise. It feels like we “see the unseen” with the help of science. 

• What do you want to achieve with your research? 

With the new SERS-based technologies I am developing (either nanoparticle structures, SERS substrates, analysis protocols and even more) I want to be able to apply it not only for chemical threats in the gas phase but also to find many useful applications in distinct areas, such as in the biological field, for instance. 

• Name a value that drives you? 

Empathy 

• Share a turning point or defining moment in your work as a scientist? 

When I started writing my Master’s Dissertation, I thought that I had not worked enough and had little to report. Just when I started recollecting all the things I have actually done, I realized my hardwork and I could see the results. It is important sometimes to self acknowledge ourselves and have more trust in us so we can be proud of the work we already achieve and can progress even more.    

• What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

I like to spend some quality time with my family and friends. But I also enjoy video games a lot. Practicing sports and drawing are also on the list.   

• Name a favorite book/movie/podcast? Why is it so good? 

FullMetal Alchemist Brotherhood is an anime/tv show and, for me, is a masterpiece in terms of story development and narrative. It brings different events such as loss, grief, war, racism and ethics in a very unique way. Even though it is a bit older now, it is definitely ahead of its time in nearly every aspect. I consider this story greater than lots of other movies and tv shows I ever watched. 

• What is your favorite quote?  

“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” Marie Curie