Meet Miguel Fonseca, Senior Data Cientist!

ACADEMIA AND MOTIVATION

The animal life and mysteries of Planet Earth have always fascinated me. Since I was little, I used to say that I would become a biologist like my grandmother. I spent hours flipping through my grandfather's National Geographic magazines. I ended up graduating in Biology and earning a PhD in the field of Genomics/Bioinformatics.

WHY BIAL?

BIAL is a reference company for most Portuguese people due to its history, evolution, and innovation. It is a company where we conduct research with a real and immediate impact on people's lives. Before joining BIAL, I had a stimulating career in Academia, but with more limited real-world impact. During my PhD (done in partnership with the University of Vigo, Spain), I would pass by BIAL (on the highway) at least twice a week – when going to the university (on Mondays) and when coming back home (on Fridays). A thought always crossed my mind: "One day, I would like to work here!"

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO WORK AT BIAL?

I take immense pride in being part of this company, which is what it is because of the people. I am very fortunate to work with excellent colleagues from day one. I joined BIAL because of its innovative projects and its history. The innovative projects continue to motivate me, and the people as well because they are incredibly passionate about what they do, very curious, and unafraid to face the unknown. At BIAL, there is a genuine concern to ensure a workplace culture of trust, transparency, and a sense of purpose. There is also a sense of sacrificing individual comfort and promotion, prioritising the needs and success of the group.