From Pharmaceuticals to Friendships: What I Gained Through International Collaboration

My LOREX exchange in Sweden reminded me that research is only one part of what makes a scientific experience meaningful. I spent the summer working with Dr. Tomas Brodin’s group at Umeå University and SLU, running experiments on how pharmaceuticals influence the behavior and physiology of damselfly larvae. The scientific side of the exchange taught me new techniques, new perspectives, and new approaches to aquatic ecotoxicology. These experiences directly strengthened my ongoing PhD work at Florida International University, where I examine pharmaceutical contamination in Biscayne Bay seagrass ecosystems and its transfer to higher trophic levels. But more than the research itself, what made the biggest impact on me were the people and the moments we shared outside the lab. I connected with my labmates through hikes in the Swedish wilderness, visits to salmon hatcheries, and casual outings that helped me learn more about local culture and fisheries research. Celebrating Midsommar together was one of those memorable experiences that made the summer feel fuller. These shared moments helped turn professional relationships into friendships. In this presentation, I’ll reflect on how the LOREX program strengthened not only my scientific skills, but also my sense of community and collaboration as an early-career aquatic scientist. My exchange showed me that the most meaningful growth often comes from both the science and the shared experiences that surround it.

Presentation Preference: Poster

Primary Presenter: Camille Demaire, Florida International University (cdema020@fiu.edu)

Authors:

Camille Demairé, Florida International University  (cdema020@fiu.edu)