Aina Roca Barcelo

I am a 2-year PhD student in the Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, School of Public Health. My research focuses on the health impacts of climate variation in highly populated areas. The research I do analyses the different temperature profiles experienced by people living in different areas of a city (i.e. close to a park vs impervious area) and identifies which factors have historically contributed towards their ability to adapt to such drastic changes in temperature. Through detecting such factors, we may be able to better predict future adaptations and inform policies.

I am inspired by all the passionate people out there fighting every day to make their dreams come true. It is really easy to feel defeated by the adversities and to give up, especially in the current pandemic where new barriers and challenges have appeared. To those who continue trying, to those who find new and creative ways to keep moving forward, to those that don’t forget their values and drive, to all those, thanks for showing me every day that this is a journey worth taking.

My most surprising lockdown activity is sewing and embroidery. My mum and grandmother used to work as tailors so I guess it does not come as a huge surprise to most. At the age of 10, I already was sewing the edge of my pants or embroidering flowers on my shirts. However, over the years I lost interest (I guess I went through that phase when you believe yourself too cool for these things…). With quarantine forcing us to take life easier, to appreciate the little things and to re-discover ways to enjoy ourselves… sewing came back to my mind! What a great decision it was! Since I got my sewing machine and embroidery kit I have made gifts for friends and family, added some new personalized items to my closet and enjoyed myself enormously. But the best part of it all is it has been a really nice way to feel more connected to my mother and grandmother, so necessary in these times.

Read more about Aina Roca Barcelo here.