Can you say a few words about yourself?
I come from Latvia, a small but mighty country on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Before pursuing engineering, I was actively engaged in Green politics and environmental activism. This experience made me realise how disconnected the pillars of science, policy, and society are; hence, I took it upon myself to try and change that. I’ve been studying Environmental engineering and sciences here at EPFL for 2 years and hope to be in this field for many more to come.
Did you choose your profession or did it choose you?
Some of my earliest memories were playing in the white sand next to the sea or picking wild berries in the neighbouring forest. I grew up with the notion of being one with nature, making me incredibly curious and passionate about protecting and restoring it. Step after step, that deep connection to the coast, the forest, and the meadows is precisely what ultimately guided me into the lab.
What attracted you to join LAPI?
Prof. Nenes was a guest lecturer in one of my courses. Although his presentation lasted only two hours, it was enough for me to get hooked and want to learn more.
Can you speak about the projects you are currently working on and other ones in the past?
Previously, I have assisted in research on greenhouse gas interactions in Swiss lakes as well as the assessment of cumulative benefits of micro nature-based solutions for flood mitigation on a European scale. In LAPI, I will work on comparing the modeled atmospheric pH with observed data.
What have been some of your biggest challenges?
Trying to find a work-life-study balance and “zooming out” to focus on the change I can make.
What have been some of your biggest successes?
Receiving the Laidlaw scholarship here at EPFL and having the opportunity to work on amazing research projects.
What do you enjoy to do, outside of science and research?
I enjoy doing pole dance and calisthenics, as well as being in nature and going to museums. I am forever fascinated by art; thus, you can often find me with a camera in hand, trying to express what words could never do.
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
Last summer, I got to visit Lake Cadagno in Ticino. It is beautiful in so many ways: from the surrounding nature, mesmerizing limnological properties, to the complete and utter absence of mobile connection. 🙂
A free thought for the end?
No matter what, the Sun will always rise #67