Kristina Kurgonaitė

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology(Vilnius University, Lithuania, University of Helsinki, Finland)
• Student industrial exchange placement (Hokkaido University, Japan)
• Master’s Degree in Biomedicine (University of Newcastle, UK)
• PhD in Life Sciences (Technical University of Dresden, Germany)

Motivation

Lithuania has always been my home and the number one country in the world. Although I have not lived in Lithuania for more than eight years, I am still an active member of the Lithuanian diaspora and, both when studying and working outside Lithuania, I have kept in touch with my country by participating in Lithuanian social activities abroad.

Lithuania’s accession to the European Union in 2004 opened up countless opportunities for studying and training abroad. Being curious and driven to achieve the best results, I did not hesitate to choose a career path abroad in order to become an international professional in my field and to network with other professionals in my field.

During these years, I have realised how important it is for us Lithuanians to be open and global, because Lithuania does not stop at its borders, and each of us is like a little ambassador representing Lithuania on a global level. I believe that young and professional people with international experience can and must contribute to the modern and innovative future of their country. I believe that the Young Professionals Programme „Create Lithuania” is that great initiative.