A boost to the immune system from Oxford
As our doctoral studies at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) drew to a close, my wife and I realized that we both wanted to have a career in science. To make that happen, we needed to gain experience abroad, learn new technologies, build international networks, and explore new research perspectives.
Our decision to do all that at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom was quickly made. Although we work in different fields, Oxford, as one of the world’s leading research universities, offered the perfect environment for both of us to pursue our careers. The university provides an excellent research infrastructure and has a strong international focus. That makes it easy to get to know people from all sorts of places and backgrounds.
Teething problems
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we had to put off our move, but in early 2021, the time had finally come for us to settle down in Oxford together with our three-year-old daughter and her infant sister, barely three months old at the time. In the beginning, everything was a challenge: the pandemic made it difficult to meet new people, we had a hard time finding childcare, and the exorbitant cost of living definitely didn’t make things easier. But with time, we eased into our new life. We met great people in our research groups and enrolled our kids in a good kindergarten and, later, school. Having kids helped us connect with a lot of other people and families and forge ties within the community.
Putting our insights into practice
I am currently part of Michael Dustin’s research group at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology. This institute is one of Europe’s largest medical research centers. My work is focused on the communication among different cell types of the immune system that play a decisive role in infectious, cancerous, and immune diseases. What I appreciate most about Oxford is the university’s active efforts to make sure basic research dovetails with potential medical applications. The university provides targeted support to researchers when it comes to putting their insights into practice in the form of patents, cooperation with partners in the pharmaceutical industry, or the foundation of spin-off companies.
Day-tripping
Oxford has a lot to offer also on our days off. The many parks and green spaces make the city the perfect place for families. The nearby Cotswolds are a wonderful destination for day trips, and another big perk is the great connection to London with its many popular museums. In the summer, it is easy to go to the coast for an excursion or a mini break. Oxford is also close enough to Austria for us to keep in touch with our family and friends.
Back to Austria with new know-how in tow
My wife and I are planning to make our next career steps at the University of Salzburg at the end of this year. Looking back, I can say with certainty that our stay abroad was absolutely essential for the development of our careers. It has not just opened up new research ideas for me, it has also helped me make international contacts that are indispensable for successful research.
None of this would have been possible without the support of the Schrödinger Fellowship, especially with small children. I’d like to encourage everyone thinking about making a similar move to take the plunge. It’s definitely worth it.
