By Dana Meknas
Journalist at TREC
Meet our newest team member: Tobias! Tobias Frischmuth is 25 years old and originally from Berlin, Germany. He moved to Tromsø at the very end of January to begin his journey as a PhD student in TREC from February 2020.
This winter you began working as a researcher at TREC! How has it been so far?
– It has been great so far. Of course every new beginning is difficult, especially in a foreign country. But everyone in the group tried to help me and made me feel comfortable after I arrived.
What is a typical day like for you?
– Typically in the morning I check my emails and then have coffee with my colleagues. After that, it’s all about working on my research topic or preparing for meetings during the day. At 11:45 sharp is lunch together with the rest of the group. Following lunch, I am back at my desk.
What is it like to work from home these days?
– It took some time for me to get used to work from home. After a few days I found my routine and it has been fine to work from home since then. It is of course different to have no personal contact and have meetings by Skype, but I think we are managing it quite well. However, everyone is affected by the new virus and no one knows how the situation will develop in the next weeks or months from now.
What does your plan look like for the next couple of years?
– I want to use my time well at TREC and do my PhD. In the meantime, I want to learn Norwegian, and possibly stay in Norway after my 3 years here in TREC.
Before moving to Norway and starting in his position as a PhD student, he was studying at medical school, which he finished, so he already has a medical degree.
What kind of expectations do you have for the coming years?
– I wish to have success in my work and have some great experiences in Tromsø exploring the beautiful nature.
How did you end up here?
– I met a special person during my studies. She is from Norway, so that’s how I ended up here.
Why did you decide to come here and do research?
– After I finished my studies I wanted to go into research for a while. I believe it is very important to the medical society and at the same time it is super interesting. By doing this, I hope to get some experience in research and use this experience when going back to clinical practice as a doctor.
Similarities and differences between Tromsø and Berlin?
– There are no similarities. Tromsø is a beautiful place compared to Berlin.
How do you experience the TREC milieu?
– I think it is an open and friendly environment. Everyone is willing to help and assist each other when needed. I also enjoy the activities outside work, like TRECxercise, where we work out together at the gym.
What kind of project are you working on?
– My goal is to find out how obesity causes venous thromboembolism, and to see if I can find a underlying cause of how this could possibly be treated and prevented.
Why are you interested in research?
– I have some previous research experience from Germany. I liked it, found it interesting and wanted more. That’s why I looked for an opportunity to continue.
If you had to describe yourself in three words – which words would you choose?
– Interested, focused, German.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
– I like to read, play sports and do outdoor activities.
We’re looking forward to following Tobias on his journey towards a PhD degree!
