Aitana Forcén-Vázquez

Field work at sea during a Physical Oceanography PhD rewarded Aitana with fresh perspectives on problem solving and critical thinking.

I have always been interested in the ocean. Because I grew up by the coast and used to sail every weekend, I became curious about how the ocean moves. When I finished my degree in Marine Science, I wanted to know more, so I decided to come to New Zealand to complete a PhD in Physical Oceanography. To me, this seemed like a great opportunity to learn ‘everything’ about ocean currents, water masses, and the variability of the Southern Ocean. I enjoyed my PhD very much. I love learning and in the four years of my studies I never gave up. It can be a lonely and difficult journey sometimes, but when I found myself solving problems it was one of the most rewarding things I have ever felt.

Having the opportunity to do field work in the Southern Ocean during my PhD was rewarding as well. During my PhD I spent most of my time in front of a computer, so going to sea on a research vessel to collect oceanographic data gave me a new perspective on how oceanography works. One of the best skills I obtained during my studies was the ability to think critically—how to ask an interesting science question, find the best data to answer it, and ultimately find the solution to the problem. I also learned other skills that are valuable in my everyday life, such as time management and efficiency needed to meet deadlines, as well as never giving up until the work is done.

After my PhD, I took a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research where I continued to develop my understanding of the Southern Ocean.

I would recommend a PhD in Oceanography if you enjoy learning different things to solve one problem, if you like to work through your own ideas, and if you are willing to move around the world with your job.

Update: Aitana is currently Scientific Coordinator/Advisor at LifeWatch ERIC in Seville.