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Exclusive Interviews with SPOT Nordic Team: Joana Lobo Vicente

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Currently living in Copenhagen, Joana has dedicated her career to bridging science and public policy, with a focus on protecting human health and the environment. With a PhD in Analytical Chemistry, she works at a European environmental agency, coordinating projects on the impacts of chemical exposure on health.


Her international path is marked by curiosity, dedication, and a collaborative spirit. Joana is one of the founding members of SPOT Nordic.


▶️ Who are you? I'm Joana, born in Portugal and currently living in Copenhagen, where I work at a European agency focused on the environment, health, and chemicals. I hold a PhD in Analytical Chemistry, and over the years I’ve been dedicated to building bridges between science and public policy, with the aim of protecting people’s health and the planet. I love sports and did triathlons for almost 10 years — nowadays, my pace is different, but I keep my energy up with daily routines that connect me to my body and wellbeing. I’m curious, committed, and deeply value collective impact.


▶️ What do you do? I coordinate projects on the impacts of pollution on human health and the environment. My daily work involves maintaining ongoing collaboration between institutions, analyzing data, writing technical documents, and finding effective ways to communicate scientific evidence to policymakers. Ultimately, the goal is to use science to inform better public policies that protect health and the planet.


▶️ What does a typical day look like? My days start early with coffee and a short meditation or yoga session. Work is dynamic and involves international meetings and technical writing. I enjoy cycling home — it's a way to disconnect and process the day. In the evening, if I still have energy, I enjoy reading or planning my next trip.


▶️ What do you value most about living in your current city and country? I really value the proximity to nature in Copenhagen, the work-life balance, and the widespread respect for the common good. It’s an environment that inspires me to live more sustainably.


▶️ What do you value in Portugal now that you live abroad, but didn’t as a resident? The light, the smells, our spontaneity, and the warm way we welcome others. These things take on a much deeper emotional weight when you’re far from home. And of course, the food — buttered bread has never tasted the same since I left.


▶️ In your opinion, what are the key areas for collaboration between Portugal and the Nordic countries?

🌿 Environmental sustainability

💡 Social innovation

🎓 Education

⚖️ Gender equality

There’s so much we can learn from one another in these areas.


▶️ Why did you decide to be part of SPOT Nordic? I’m one of the founders of SPOT Nordic because I believe in the power of these networks of Portuguese professionals abroad. I was previously on the board of PARSUK (Portuguese Association of Researchers and Students in the UK), in the UK where I studied, and I saw firsthand the positive impact these associations can have. They are vehicles for connection, sharing, and collaboration with Portugal — even from afar.


▶️ How can you contribute to the SPOT Nordic team? I love building bridges between people and ideas. I bring experience in collaborative projects, communication, and strategy — along with energy, organization, and a strong drive to make things happen.

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▶️ Which SPOT Nordic projects are you most passionate about? I’m especially drawn to initiatives that promote international careers for young Portuguese professionals, highlighting the talent we have in Portugal. I truly believe in the power of storytelling and inspiration through example.


▶️ A final message you'd like to share with the world: I believe that together, through small actions, courage, and generosity, we can build a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable world — by creating networks with purpose and meaning.




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