As I look back at my time in Lyon I think about the vast array of experiences that we have had. One however, stood out; our visit to INSA to meet Guido Pintacuda, an analytical chemist and specialist in NMR spectroscopy . I knew that this visit would be particularly interesting for me because of my background in Chemistry but I didn’t realize how much it would change my perspective on the field. Aside from the scientific aspect, the building and workspace were irregular. The building is covered in formulas for calculating the magic angle and the shutters were representative of elements in the periodic table. The workspace is entirely open and offers means for collaborative work, something that is essential to a career in science.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a technique used to observe the interaction of atomic nuclei with magnetic fields to characterize complex molecules.

When the group walked into the space containing the NMR spectrometers, I felt immediately comfortable. Let me explain. I conduct research through the University of Washington Chemistry department which requires me to spend substantial amounts of time taking NMR in a space that looks almost identical. We even use the same software and commands to acquire data. At first, nothing left me wondering. But then, Guido discussed the magic angle and passed around a series of smaller and smaller…and smaller pieces of an instrument that he has perfected. This blew my mind and I am still considering the science behind the magic angle. To hear the passion from Guido and his post docs was truly inspiring and left me wanting, more than ever, a career in this field.

However, the biggest take away was watching scientists get in touch with their ~artistic~ side by dipping flowers in liquid nitrogen (something I am going to have to try upon my return home). Over the last four weeks, I have been telling myself that I am leaping out of my comfort zone and trying something new and not “science-y” for once. While that may hold true, I’ve realized two fundamental things on this trip. One is that art can manifest itself in many ways and often ties into innovation. Scientists and artists work together to create the world around me. Just looking at the uniqueness of the INSA buildings is a great example of art and science colliding. And two is that no matter where I end up, I want to work at or somewhere like INSA. The atmosphere of the workplace is incredibly cooperative and offers space for collaborative thinking, the projects are innovative and working toward a goal for the greater good, and there is a supply of liquid nitrogen to dip a variety of things in. Okay maybe not that last one. So on that note, farewell Lyon, hopefully I’ll see you in one PhD from now.