For those who don’t know you yet, could you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your PhD project?
I’m Daniel Yzuel, DC2, from Spain. During the first year of my PhD, I’ve been working on the total-field estimation step of the QSM pipeline. QSM, or quantitative susceptibility mapping, is an MRI technique that aims to map the magnetic susceptibility of different tissues in the brain.
How would you describe your overall experience at ISMRM in Cape Town?
It was my first international conference, so I didn’t really know what to expect. It was a fantastic experience on every level: a great opportunity to network within my field, meet new colleagues, discuss science with leading researchers, and discover a fascinating country that I might never have visited if it hadn’t been for the conference.
How did you find the exchange of knowledge and ideas at the conference? Was there a conversation, presentation, or new idea that really stayed withyou?
The exchange of knowledge and ideas was excellent, particularly during the poster sessions. I could approach people working on projects similar to mine, and we wouldquickly find ourselves having very detailed, specialized scientific conversations. I learned a great deal from them, and I’d like to think I was able to contribute some knowledge as well. I also came away with one or two very promising ideas for my own research.
What was your favorite moment or experience during the trip?
I would highlight two moments. The first was presenting my poster, since that was the main reason I was there. I was a little nervous at the beginning, but it turned out to bea great experience. I had long conversations with several people, and it was very rewarding to see the effort I had put into the work pay off. The second was the ISMRM Benelux party. I had already been warned that it was a must, and they were right!
And what did you think of Cape Town? Was there anything about the city, the people, or the culture that surprised you?I think the food was Cape Town’s hidden gem. Before going there, I never expected the food to be so good, but I had many wonderful culinary experiences. The hiking routes around the city were also stunning. We had opportunities to speak with some local people and learn more about this fascinating country, including the historical and social scars that they are still working to heal.
What was the funniest or most unexpected thing that happened during the trip?
There were some highlights, but I think it was the overall atmosphere that made the trip so enjoyable: being surrounded by science enthusiasts who were always ready to discuss research over lunch, while also living and spending time with my lab colleagues for a couple of weeks... There was rarely a dull moment.
Was there anything you didn’t enjoy so much, or maybe something that didn’t go quite as planned?We did encounter some of the city’s safety issues, which are connected to the difficult poverty experienced by part of its population. We had to be particularly cautious incertain situations. I think the organizers could have handled this a little better by providing clearer safety guidance, for example, by identifying areas of the city that visitors should avoid.
After coming back from Cape Town, is there anything you see differently now, either about your research, your PhD, or yourself?The main positive realization I brought home from ISMRM was that the MRI research community (or at least the part of it I experienced) is very open, welcoming, fun, and easygoing. I would love to continue contributing to that community, both through my scientific work and on a personal, human level.
What three pieces of advice would you give to researchers attending ISMRM for the first time?I don’t feel particularly qualified to give advice after attending only once, but I would suggest three things. First, get the “newbie” ribbon so that people know it’s your first time, and so you can play the newbie card whenever you feel a little lost. Second, ask plenty of questions and try to engage in conversations with as many people as possible, regardless of their position or seniority. Finally, enjoy the experience and make the most of it, because attending a conference like ISMRM is a huge privilege.
What is one thing you came home with that definitely wasn’t in your suitcase?
A 20-centimetre ebony-wood rhinoceros souvenir. I’m fairly certain it wasn’t in my suitcase when I left home. They have some serious sales skills down there