LIOS researcher Alvis Zvirgzdins is undertaking research mobility at the Centre de Résonance Magnétique Nucléaire (CRMN) in Lyon, France. The opportunity is enabled through the MR LATVIA project, which aims to strengthen advanced NMR research capacity in Latvia and includes Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) visits for scientists from LIOS as a core activity.
The mobility provides hands-on experience with high-field solid-state NMR and offers exposure to an international research environment. A follow-up visit is planned for February 2026, continuing the collaboration with CRMN.
MR LATVIA: What motivated you to undertake this mobility?
Alvis: I wanted to work with the kind of NMR instruments that you rarely have access to early in your career. CRMN has 800 MHz and even 1 GHz systems, and I was excited to see how far biological solid-state NMR can be pushed experimentally. It felt like an opportunity to accelerate both my PhD project and my development as a researcher.
MR LATVIA: What does your work involve at CRMN?
Alvis: A large part of the mobility focuses on amyloid fibrils, which are structurally challenging and scientifically relevant. I prepare samples, run experiments, analyse data, and learn how to adjust pulse sequences and acquisition parameters. I also present progress during group meetings, which is useful for feedback and exchange of ideas.
MR LATVIA: What has stood out to you during the mobility?
Alvis: "The intensity and technical depth of daily NMR work. Everyone is very hands-on: from sample packing to troubleshooting hardware, and the pace is fast. I also appreciate how open the environment is. Even as a visiting researcher, I can join discussions and people are willing to explain details and share insights."
MR LATVIA: What personal or professional growth has come from this experience?
Alvis: "It has been eye-opening in terms of how international research works: collaboration, different approaches, and the importance of precision. I have gained practical skills, but also confidence in making experimental decisions and interpreting results. It has made me more independent as a researcher. From wider perspective, such experience supports the development of biological solid-state NMR in Latvia and helps establish long-term collaboration. I hope these relationships will lead to more exchanges, joint research, or future projects. Building a community around advanced NMR requires mobility and collaboration, and this visit contributes to that goal."
Alvis’ experience illustrates how international research mobility helps develop young scientists, technically and personally, and how programmes such as MR LATVIA support research capacity, expertise development at LIOS, and future collaboration in Europe.