Please introduce yourself. Hi! I’m Renata Barros, born and raised in Brazil, and I have been living in Europe for the past decade. Currently, I’m based in Brussels, Belgium. I hold a PhD from University College Dublin, Ireland, where I got to dive into the fascinating world of lithium pegmatites, exploring their unique geochemistry with just about every lab analysis you can think of. Even though geochemistry is still close to my heart, my current focus is on science communication and project management. You’d be surprised how studying high-temperature geochemical processes deep in the crust can give you skills that are super handy in all kinds of careers.

What were the scientific and/or personal reasons why you chose your current location? I struggled to find a job after finishing my PhD, especially as an overseas expat in Europe, which meant navigating the work visa process. In 2018 during the holidays between Christmas and New Year’s, feeling almost out of hope, I came across an intriguing “Project Researcher” opening at the Geological Survey of Belgium. I quickly applied and was pleasantly surprised when I was selected for an interview.

I’m not sure if it was my technical skills or the fact that I mentioned my motivation for moving to Belgium was the quality of the beer, but three months later, here I was with a brand new job. Although I’ve since moved on, my time at the Survey was an incredible experience that expanded my skillset far beyond what I ever imagined. I not only explored new geochemistry projects and technologies, but I also had the chance to manage government-funded initiatives and dive into science communication, which truly enriched my professional journey.
 

What advice can you give to others considering making a transnational move to pursue their career in geochemistry? My advice is to reach out to other expats who are already living in the place you’re considering, especially those working or studying at the same institution. Connecting with them can give you a real sense of what life is like there, what they enjoy, what challenges they face, and whether it’s the right fit for you. I think this is a great way to get a more realistic picture of what to expect. And something I wish I had done better is to keep the long-term future in mind. It’s important to gather as much information as you can about the financial side of things, such as taxation, as well as visa and permit requirements, and how your contributions will impact your retirement plan. Understanding how the healthcare system, social services, and other support structures work is also essential. Luckily, the expats who’ve already made the move can be really helpful, offering advice based on their own experiences.
 

 
What resources or support networks did you find most helpful during your transition?

There are usually many institutional support services available for expats, so make sure to take full advantage of them. The free post-PhD career development service I had access to in Ireland, for example, was a real game-changer for me. It helped me to tailor my CV properly and how to prepare for interviews outside academia.

For me, it’s also really important to stay connected with fellow Brazilians wherever I go. I make the most of social media to find expat groups and join events. It’s a great way to build a support network and stay connected to home.