PE&RC in the Spotlight

Every month we put a PE&RC member in the spotlight. This month we are getting to know Germán Pérez, who’s is the secretary, the NIOO representative and a member of the PE&RC day Committee. 

What are you passionate about in your research?
My PhD project is about the ecology of methane oxidizing bacteria in freshwater systems. I think, without any hesitation the stage of thinking and planning experiments to prove my ideas is where I feel more passionate about. I like the process of creating, debating my ideas with my supervisor or peers and then put that into practice… it’s a boost of adrenaline.

If you could change one thing at your university/research institute, what would it be?
From my home institution (Agronomy Faculty, UdelaR-Uruguay) a more even and unique rule for employees from different Departments doing their PhD abroad. From WUR or NIOO-KNAW, still there are many things to work out with PhD candidates who have scholarships and not a contract with the Dutch Institution. There have been some nice attempts at WUR to improve the inequalities yet there is plenty to do.

If you could be any plant what would you be, and why?
I love plants in general and always try to have them around me. Fortunately, I share my office at NIOO with people who also love them so we our office is a mini greenhouse. I’d say that during my stay here, orchids rule my life. I own 10 Phalaenopsis and other plants as well! Why…well these orchids make their living out of few nutrients and in the end, they have alluring flowers. So as orchids, I wish that the outcome of my actions in life came from the combination of simple things…

What have you been cooking lately?
I am currently performing my last experiments in Poland … so Pierogi with different sauces. Seriously, I made a pumpkin soup and rice with vegetables and “verse kruidenmix” which I brought from Wageningen.

What should all 1st year PhD candidates know?
Something I heard at the PE&RC First years weekend and I was shocked… we can be happy during our PhD. And that is super important… enjoy every single achievement, experience, and treasure them… they will be one of your assets in your life.