[In Tübingen] "the organization and atmosphere of welcome and support are impressive".
Márcia Goettert received her Doctorate of Pharmacy at the University of Tuebingen in 2011. Now as Professor of Biotechnology in Brazil, her major research fields are Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Cancer Cell Biology and Chronic Inflammation. In 2018, she returned to Tuebingen for her ongoing collaboration with the UT Brazilian Center. Her 4-year old daughter joined her to Tuebingen for the first time.
Professor at the Department of Biotechnology
Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates
Brazil
Personal Site
In Tübingen
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| Host Professor | Prof. Dr. Stefan Laufer |
| at | Brazilian Center of the University of Tübingen |
What is your main research field and its importance in a broader context?
"I am mainly interested in Pharmaceutical medicine and biotechnology applied to identify compounds and to develop new strategies for the treatment of chronic diseases, and also in the use of biotechnological techniques to answer questions on the research topic. My research is based on the knowledge and understanding of how some medicine or new molecules work. The project initiated in Tuebingen led to many publications, including important discoveries to identify and develop molecules with therapeutic applications, whether of natural or synthetic origin."
Why did you get interested and involved in a research stay in Tübingen?
"During my stay as a PhD student supported by the Ministry of Science, Research and Arts of Baden-Wurttemberg (MWK-BK-Germany) in 2006-2011, I participated in specific analyses of compounds (natural and synthetic) with anti-inflammatory potential, able to inhibit specific cytokines and proteins, as well as in the development and optimization of tests to identify these compounds. The project was carried out in collaboration with the University of Freiburg (Prof. Merfordt) and the research group of the Department of Medicinal Chemistry of the University of Tubingen, coordinated by Prof. Dr. Stefan Laufer. I was able to discuss and set up future projects."
What was your most rewarding experience during your stay here?
"The University of Tübingen is excellent, with a remarkable reputation, beyond the scientific domain of the research team and, of course, the warm hospitality.
Overall, my academic and professional visit was successful. During my stay and my activities in the research group of Prof. Dr. Laufer, I had the most productive and memorable moments of my academic career. Prof. Dr. Laufer supported my activities, for which I am very thankful. I had the opportunity to benefit from the unique knowledge and resources of the University of Tübingen."
Which tangible outcomes of your stay are most important? What is planned for the future?
"My stay in Tubingen, accompanied by my 4-year-old daughter was an enriching experience for me personally and professionally. Besides being able to experience cultural and social aspects, which was a wonderful experience, I had the opportunity to have discussions with wonderful researchers.
This stay considerably strengthened my capacity in research; I had access to research subjects and possibilities for new discussions, as well as projections of future research. The results obtained from the analyses were fundamental to conclude some projects."
If someone asked you about your impressions of Tübingen, what would you reply?
"Whenever I have the chance to share my experiences of Tübingen or the University, I do so with great pleasure. The organization and atmosphere of welcome and support are impressive. I would like to also note the attention given by the Welcome Center of the University of Tuebingen, who did not spare any effort to ensure that everything was always perfect."
Is there something you think German academia could learn from academia in Brazil or vice-versa?
"The German scientific technology and research policies are very impressive and are a strong stimulus for higher education in Brazil. Brazil has also important cultural aspects (such as German cities in southern Brazil) and diversity (culture, climate, biodiversity) that could be used to improve interactions between some research fields."
Do you have any further comments?
"I'm going to share this experience and hope to be able to repeat it soon."
Thank you for the interview, Márcia!
