Researching in the US

Why did you leave Catalonia?

The reason I left Catalonia was so I could do research for my post-doctorate. In July 2016, I received my PhD from the Autonomous University of Barcelona’s Institute of High Energy Physics, and then I was offered a two-year position in Beijing (China) to continue with my research. At present, however, I am at Indiana University in Bloomington (United States) for a number of months as a visiting researcher.

Why did you choose the United States?

In science, it’s important to interact and collaborate with people you can learn from. One of the people I was working with was a professor at Indiana University and she invited me to visit her and continue our research projects together; I didn’t turn down the offer

How long have you been living there?

Just a month now.

Are you happy with the job opportunities you found there?

I am happy with the stimulating scientific environment here, which allows me to establish productive professional interactions.

What do you think is the best thing about living in Bloomington?

Bloomington is a quiet and relaxed city, full of nice single-family houses with gardens. In fact, at times it reminds me of Sant Cugat del Vallés, my hometown, because they are about the same size and everything is close. Another interesting thing I have found here is the free daily opera/jazz/classical music concerts on campus offered by the students of the Jacobs School of Music. Its recognised as one of the top music schools in the US, some even say its the best.

What do you consider the highlights for any brief visit for the first time?

As the city revolves around the university, more than half of the population have some kind of relationship with the university, I would recommend a walk through the lovely garden areas of the campus. There are squirrels everywhere!

And if visitors have more time or make a return visit?€

I would recommend they visit the Griffy, Lake Lemon and Monroe Lakes where you can go hiking or kayaking. Also, if you like motor sports, it’s worth a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the home of the famous Indianapolis 500.

What do you miss most from home?

Well, this one’s easy. I would be lying if I didn’t say my family and friends. But I also miss the feeling to be at home with everything this word means.

Do you plan to come back to Catalonia?

Yes, I do. Apart from going home for holiday visits, at some time in the future I would like to get back to Catalonia. To be honest I do not see myself living in a different place so far away.