Environmental Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway

Upon returning to Greece after completing my Fulbright grant, I am pleased to share a brief reflection on this transformative experience. As a 2025–2026 Fulbright Visiting Scholar at the Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center (NAMC) within the Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute at Rutgers University, I had the opportunity to conduct research on micro‑ and nanoplastics, an area of growing global concern and scientific importance.

This fellowship allowed me to expand my expertise in environmental toxicology, work with state‑of‑the‑art methodologies, and collaborate closely with leading researchers in the field. Throughout my time at Rutgers, I developed new scientific skills, strengthened my analytical capabilities, and established research connections that will continue to support my work in Greece. The project is expected to contribute to at least two first‑author publications in high‑impact, peer‑reviewed journals, further advancing my research trajectory, with one manuscript already under revision in the Journal of Hazardous Materials.

Beyond the academic environment, living in the United States was an enriching personal experience. I was deeply impressed by the openness, generosity, and collaborative spirit of the scientific and local community. Engaging with fellow Fulbrighters, colleagues, and international researchers broadened my perspective and helped me better understand the cultural and professional dynamics of American academia. This experience has reinforced my motivation to pursue competitive national and European research grants and to continue developing my work at the National Observatory of Athens.

I am sincerely grateful to Fulbright Greece for supporting my academic journey and for offering me an opportunity that has had a profound impact on my professional development and personal growth. I look forward to applying the knowledge, skills, and collaborations gained during my fellowship to contribute to scientific progress in Greece.