MEET OUR SUPERVISORS
In our recent interview, we had the pleasure of talking with Marcos Arroyo, Associate Professor at Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. With a diverse professional background, Marcos offers a unique perspective on the benefits of participating in collaborative research programs, such as FRONTIErS MSCA Doctoral Network.
Can you please provide some insight into your educational and professional background?
I am a civil engineer (Madrid, 1991) who, after some years working as a designer, took an interest in geomechanics and developed that interest through a PhD in Bristol (UK) in the late 90s, I went back to the industry for a few years and then took research positions in Milan and London, before settling in Barcelona.
How or why did you join the FRONTIErS network?
I had a keen interest in the topic and found kindred souls in Ken, Luke and Gudmund, so we started preparing a proposal.
Have you had any prior experience with the MSCA Programme?
Yes, both in doctoral networks and other branches, like RISE. I also had my fair share of experience with unsuccessful proposals.
From your perspective, what are the primary benefits of participating in an MSCA doctoral network?
It keeps you on your toes. I mean there is a positive network effect not just for the early-stage researchers -for whom such a network is positive in many ways- but also for supervisors. You can see how your project may fit in the larger scheme of things and receive plenty of feedback from a variety of sources.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the evolution of the FRONTIErS network by the conclusion of the programme?
The demands for ocean-based green energy solutions are vast and the technical problems associated with them are far from trivial. I think there is a need for a sustained long-term effort in Europe in this area. Doctoral Networks like FRONTIERS are one important element in the build-up of human resources trained at the appropriate level.