Ao abrigo de uma Bolsa Fulbright para Investigação com o apoio da FCT, Tiago Cidade, estudante de doutoramento em “Biodiversity, Genetics, and Evolution” da Universidade do Porto, desenvolveu parte da sua pesquisa sobre “science-based conservation strategies for vulnerable marine species” no Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), MA, EUA.
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«My Fulbright experience in the United States was incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. It gave me the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers in an international and collaborative environment in Woods Hole, experience a different academic environment and build collaborations that I know will be extremely valuable and continue into the future.
Close collaboration with the Marine Predators Group at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution immersed me in a leading ocean research community, fostering both scientific teamwork and meaningful conversations across disciplines. A highlight of this experience was the opportunity to present the seminar, “Adaptive Fleets in a 51 Dynamic Ocean: How Shifting Longline Strategies and Ocean Dynamics Drive Shark Vulnerability.” Presenting this work to the Woods Hole scientific community was a rewarding opportunity to exchange ideas with renowned experts in marine ecology, fisheries science, and physical oceanography.
Beyond the research itself, living and working in the U.S. broadened my perspective, challenged me in the best possible way, and made me grow significantly as a scientist and as a person.
The Fulbright experience opened up valuable chances for personal and cultural exchange with local communities in the region, allowing me to connect with American culture, local traditions, and community life. I could also share insights from my own cultural and scientific background. Informal talks, collaborative projects, and participation in seminars, institutional events, and social gatherings helped create lasting professional networks and personal relationships that went beyond the research itself.
Finally, the Fulbright program also provided valuable opportunities to travel across different regions of the United States, further enriching the cultural exchange experience.
I am truly grateful to Fulbright for the experience and for the connections and opportunities that came with it.»
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Thank you, Tiago, and welcome home!