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Sweden
NEWS19 Nov 2015Meet the researchers

Interview with Ernest Sargsyan

ernest_sargsyan

What was your main reason for coming to Sweden?

To do a PhD study at Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. I received a fellowship from the Swedish Institute in the year 2000.

What is the best thing about living in Sweden?

Environment is good with fantastic forests, lakes and parks. There are also many museums, theaters. You can always find something to do during the weekend. You can find restaurants with good food from all over the world. You can also meet people from many different countries.

Can you tell me a bit about your work and why you decided to come to Sweden?

80% of individuals with type 2 diabetes are obese and have high blood fat. I am studying the role of high fat in the development of type 2 diabetes, more specifically how high concentrations of fat influence insulin-producing cells.

I decided to come to Sweden because the country has a strong history in science and it´s possible to do high quality research here. Additionally, Swedish Institute provided financial support for coming to Sweden and starting PhD study.

How would you describe your career perspectives in Sweden?

Ideally I would receive enough grants to be able to start my own group.

What was surprising for you when you moved to Sweden?

Employee-employer relations are different from my home country. Only first names are used when talk to employee.

What do you miss from your home country?

I miss spending time with relatives and friends, the climate and food.