As part of the initiative “Center for Counseling and Guidance in Research Careers – Western Region,” a project aimed at encouraging young people to pursue careers in research and promoting science in the community, interviews were conducted with prominent figures in the scientific field. The project, funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), Component 9: Support for the private sector, research, development, and innovation, Investment I10, is part of the ERA TALENT platform and aims to create a national network of eight regional career guidance centers.

One of these interviews was conducted with Mr. Philippe Veber, senior researcher and project director of PNRR I8. Mr. Veber currently works at the West University of Timișoara, coordinating the Enhanced Single Crystal Applications and Research in the Growth of new Optical rare earth-based compounds for sustainable and efficient Technologies (ESCARGOT) project, funded by the Romanian Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digitalization through PNRR.

During the interview, Mr. Veber discussed his passion for crystal growth, explaining the importance of their applications in laser technology and mobile devices. He also highlighted the sustainability challenges in discovering new materials. With extensive international experience, Mr. Veber talked about his experience so far at the West University of Timișoara and how he was drawn to Romania.

He also offered advice to those passionate about science on how to stay motivated in research, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and curiosity in the scientific field.

The full interview with Mr. Philippe Veber is available at english and romanian.