NEWS
GENERAL INFORMATION STUDENT MOBILITY 2025 - Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP). 15 November 2024
COURSE ON INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING - UFOP
19 October 2024
From March - July 2024, Universidade Federal de Our Preto (UFOP) offers in English a course for students with an Industrial Engineering program or related areas.
Information about the course:
Workload: 15 hours a week (15 ECTS) This course is divided in 2 parts: - part 01: conduct studies and research on: business incubator, entrepreneurship, business management, marketing, finance, quality management. - part 02: a) management of internal processes of the business incubator; b) create and offer mini-courses on entrepreneurship; c) assist in the quality mechanism of the business incubator; d) assist companies installed in the business incubator.
UFOP offers also other interesting courses in English. For more information please contact mgp.verwei@avans.nl
LIVING LAB 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY MINI-SYMPOSIUM
16 October 2024
This year we are celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the Living Lab Biobased Brazil!
To celebrate we are organizing a mini-symposium and drinks for people that have been involved in the Living Lab.
We also invite you to join this event since you have done an internship in The Netherlands as part of the Living Lab. It would be great if you can join!
Where: Belo Horizonte (UFMG: Auditorium A102 CAD2) & NBSO
When: Thursday 31 October 14.00 – 20.00
Program:
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time |
what |
who |
|
14.00 |
Welcome |
by Prof. Alessandro Moreira, Vice President of UFMG (as host), Prof. Fernando Santos Eduardo, Head of the International Office, PUC MINAS, Jacomine Ravensbergen, Vice Dean Avans UAS. |
|
14.15 |
Chemical recycling |
Prof Qian Zhou (Avans University) |
|
14.35 |
Nutrient recovery using membrane-assisted distillation |
Prof. Bárbara Caroline Ricci Nunes - Professora Adjunta (PUC Minas) |
|
14.55 |
Circular materials |
Prof. Professor Tosca van Hooy (Zuyd University) |
|
15.15 |
Biofuels and Bioresins |
Prof. Vânya Márcia Duarte Pasa (UFMG) |
|
15.35 |
Break |
|
|
16.00 |
Smart Fermentation |
Prof. Miao Miao Zhou (Avans University) |
|
16.20 |
Presentations Dutch students in BH |
Floris den Ridder, Wester de Graaf |
|
16.40 |
Experiences from Brazilian students going to NL |
Coordinated by former LLB student Laura Cardoso |
|
17.00 |
Closing words |
After the symposium, there will be drinks and music at NBSO. You are also invited for this event. Are you interested in coming? Put the date in your calendar and sign up here!
BIOBASED BATTLE 2024
3 July 2024
Attention students of UFSJ, UFJF, and UFOP! Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to tackle real-world environmental challenges? Don't miss the opportunity to join the Biobased Battle 2024, taking place from October 27-30, online. This event offers a collaborative and educational space for students from Brazilian and Dutch universities to think together on innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues within the construction sector. Engaging in this challenge will enhance your interdisciplinary and intercultural teamwork skills, as well as knowledge about the biobased economy, and the activity could potentially be used for elective credits in your study programs. Interested students are invited to contact their university's international office for further details and registration.
VISIT NBSO BELO HORIZONTE AT MNEXT - AVANS UAS
25 June 2024
In preparation for the visit to Minas Gerais in October 2024,
Hans Blankenburgh and Caspar van Rijnbach from the Netherlands Business Support Offices (NBSO) visited MNEXT-Avans. Afterwards, there was a nice lunch with former, current and PhD Living Lab Brazil students!
A day in the life of a MNEXT intern.
June 2024
In this short film, you will
meet Carolina Lana and Thiago Veloso, they talk about their experiences as interns at MNEXT.
IT'S THE DUTCH EXPERIENCE!
25 June 2024
Reflecting on our experiences as exchange students, we realize just how much we’ve learned and grown. Taking part in the Living Lab Biobased has been an amazing journey filled with challenges and discoveries. Our primary goal was to improve our English skills, and we've made significant progress. Initially, we were very insecure, even to order food. Now, speaking English has become more natural to us. Living in the Netherlands has taught us many things about adapting to a new culture and way of life. For instance, we learned that surviving having just a sandwich for lunch is possible, something we hadn’t considered before. We also discovered that traffic lights can be noisy when crossing the road and that a two-hour drive can be too far away, we don’t know how. The Dutch weather presented its own set of challenges. Wind and rain can be formidable adversaries, while sunny days and bright blue skies become treasured events. Read More.
SANDWICH PhD VIA LIVING LAB BRAZIL
25 June 2024
About a year ago I (Jappe de Best) received a request from Claudio Mudadu, a professor that I met several times on my trips to Belo Horizonte and who received several Dutch students for an internship at Universidade Federal de Vicosa (UFV). He asked if I would be willing to receive one of his PhD students. This student received a sandwich PhD grant from Capes PRint and wanted to come to The Netherlands to do part of her research at Avans-MNEXT. She was especially interested in pyrolysis and LCA. Two main research topics of my research group. I liked the idea immediately because I think it is a perfect way to further develop cooperation within the living lab, and it offers PhD students the opportunity to go abroad. Since it was the first time for a PhD exchange within the Living lab Brazil it took a bit of time arranging the exchange, but it was worthwhile waiting. In September 2023, Bruna joined my research group. During her stay she has been able to link the research that she did in Brazil with the research we do at Avans-MNEXT. It definitely enriched our knowledge and experience and will also lead to 2 nice publications. Read More
INTERNSHIP ON THE INTERSETION OF BIOLOGY AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING.
25 June 2024
Hi all, my name is Victor, I am a 4th year electrical engineering student from UFMG in Brazil. At the moment I am in Breda, the Netherlands, on an internship at MNEXT (Materials and Energy Transition), a group that is part of Avans University of Applied Sciences and HZ University of Applied Sciences.
Back in Brazil I first heard about Living Lab Brazil by a friend who participated in the program, I asked him about the details, because I always had the dream to have experiences abroad, then I decided to apply, even though, at first, I couldn’t see much correlation between the topics presented and my studies.
In my course, the interface between the biology and electrical studies is not really worked, despite that, I had an interest in developing new skills. So, when I discovered the Smart Energy department, a department that would work mostly on the energy transition at MNEXT, I decided to apply for topics in that subject as it would feel closer to my background. Read More
BRAZILIAN STUDENTS EXCITED ABOUT VIDEO ZUYD UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES.
25 June 2024
Together with Brazilian students Gabriel Domingues, Mariana Gouvea, Ana-Flavia de Oliveira and Matheus Mugayar, Zuyd produced a video to reach future Brazilian students. And to quickly inform coordinators and professors of the Brazilian universities on the impact of the exchange for their Brazilian students. The video shows a very realistic view of the applied research projects in the laboratories that they participate in for a semester. Enjoy the enthusiasm of the Brazilian students in the video.
In this video, Brazilian students tell about their experiences.
BIOBASED BATTLE 2023
Last week more than 40 students of the Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF), Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP), Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei (UFSJ) and Avans University of Applied Sciences enjoyed another biobased battle.
This year, the students travelled to the future. More specific to the year 2073. In this year, the Energy and Material Transition has been a resounding success. All energy now comes from wind, sun, and renewable sources. All carbon-based materials are now made from renewable sources. The former Oil and Gas multinationals have almost disappeared.
In groups of 4-5, the students had to look back in time and describe how the thought this huge transformation took place. Which major idea was embraced that brought a change from fossil fuel use to renewable sources?
What were the costs needed to implement the idea and what were the environmental benefits?
On Thursday the groups pitched their ideas for an international jury. Some very interesting solutions were presented. There is still hope ....
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE AT UFMG.
By Marit Verbeet - Topic internship: the production chain of indigenous species.
During my internship at the University of Belo Horizonte, I went on a field excursion to Bonito de Minas. Bonito de Minas. is located over 600 km north of Belo Horizonte, in the northern region of the state of Minas Gerais. My goal there was to interview the people who still lived off the land in traditional ways. In this community, they pick fruits that grow wild. Together with my colleagues, we had many questions to understand how this process happened, especially since these fruits are packed with vitamins and are popular with cosmetic companies. Read more.
INTERNSHIP POSITIONS - DEADLINE APPLICATION 10 February 2023
Living Lab Biobased Brazil offers a number of internships and biobased graduation internship projects. New is the addition of topics on Smart Energy and Biobased Construction.These projects take place at partner institutions, such as universities and companies. Deadline for application for the period September 2023 – January 2024 is April 1. Click here for more information.
Besides doing an internship in Minas Gerais, for Dutch students, it is also possible to do an English minor/ semester program at UFMG, UFOP, and UFV. For more information about English-taught semester programs please contact mgp.verwei@avans.nl
VISIT BRAZIL 2 February 2023
A Dutch delegation from HZ, Zuyd and Avans University of Applied Sciences visited Minas Gerais in November 2022. They visited representatives of International Offices, more than 25 professors/researchers and their labs. And of course, the 7 Dutch students who were doing their internship in Brazil at that time. During the meetings the following topics were discussed: joint research, exchange of professors, subsidy options and promotion of the Living Lab in general. The research topics have been broadened since the research group Smart Energy and Biobased Construction were also represented. If you want more information about this trip please contact Jappe de Best.
MARIA CARRUPT DE ALMEIDA ABOUT HER EXPERIENCES AT ZUYD UAS. 2 February 2023
My name is Maria, I'm a Pharmacy student from the Federal University of Ouro Preto, in Minas Gerais - Brazil. Right now, I'm doing an internship in the Netherlands, through Zuyd University of Applied Sciences.
I chose an internship in the Netherlands because the opportunities offered here are amazing. The laboratory facilities, extremely good professors, and great technology to accomplish good results called my attention. On top of that, the Netherlands seemed very charming with all the bikes, canals, and windmills.
My project here focuses its research on finding ways to reduce the use of fossil fuels and substitute them for sunlight, which is extremely interesting and relevant to the problems with climate change we face nowadays. My work is mostly in the lab, doing experiments. I have been here for 4 months, and the knowledge I got from this internship is incredible!
BIOBASED BATTLE ON RESIDUAL STREAMS FROM THE COFFEE INDUSTRY. 2 February 2023
On 7-10 November 2022, the 10th Biobased Battle was organized by Living Lab Biobased Brazil. Our virtual learning experience took place with students from Avans University of Applied Sciences, who participated in the location in Breda, and students from the Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto and the Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, who were working online from Brazil.
Prof. Saulo Ferreira (UFLA) asked them to find a solution for using residual streams from the coffee industry, such as parts of the husk and wastewater. The biobased battle works according to a pressure cook concept. On the first day, each group of 4 students had to research as many solutions as possible. On the second day, a choice was made based on multi-criteria analysis (MCA) for the best solution based on financial, technical, and environmental aspects. On the last day, the groups pitched their idea to a jury that consisted of Bruno Bastos (Avans), Boutros Sarrouh (UFSJ), Julia Mendes (UFOP), Liliane Catone Soares (UFOP), and myself (Avans). The jury assessed the pitches on several criteria, such as feasibility, innovation, social and environmental impacts, and market potential.
In the 3rd place, the group presented an idea to recycle the husk to produce eco bags as a replacer for regular supermarket bags (of paper or plastic). In the 2nd place, the group presented an idea to recover compounds in the husk to form a biofilm for protecting fruits and vegetables.
LUNCH/BREAKFAST & LEARN 2 February 2023
Every two weeks we update anyone who is interested on specific themes from the materials and energy transition. During the Lunch & Learn lectures, every Thursday afternoon from 12:15 to 1:00 pm (CET), you follow presentations by experts or join a broad discussion on a topic. All Lunch & Learn lectures will be English spoken. Find here more information! If you also would like to share an interesting topic, please contact: info@coebbe.nl
MESSAGE FROM RUBEN IN BRAZIL. 2 February 2023
Olá! My name is Ruben Oliemans, and I am currently studying Environmental Science (ESSET) at Avans University of Applied Sciences in Breda. Here I will tell something about my abroad experience in Brazil, where I did an internship via the Living Labs exchange program.
REASON FOR AN INTERNSHIP AT THE LIVING LABS BRAZIL
Basically, I started looking for internships abroad and wanted to go to a completely different country to experience another culture and live abroad. I’ve been to South America on holidays before and enjoyed my time there. This triggered me to look for an internship position in the region of South America. Along the way, I got to know more about Brazil, and after a while, I was pretty interested in Brazil and the Brazilian lifestyle. As well as wanting to experience the life of Samba and Caipirinha’s, which worked out very well. I decided to go to Belo Horizonte based on what I read about the city on the internet and other students’ experiences. In the end, I am very glad about my choice. I was able to experience life in a big city, as well as the warmth of Minas Gerais and its people. Read more.
BREAKFAST (BR) / LUNCHMEETING (NL) 28th OF SEPTEMBER ON ETHANOL/BIOGAS PRODUCTION. 21 September 2022
On September 28, we would like to invite you to a Breakfast (BR: 08.00) / Lunch (NL: 13.00) session from the Living Lab Bioabsed Brazil. Professor Leandro will be presenting his work on ethanol/biogas production.
This is a moment for us to meet up in an informal way. We want to invite researchers to present their work at the end of every month so that we can meet with other people doing similar research startin with professor Leandro on the 28th of September.
Please contact Margot Verwei for more information.
INTERNSHIPS APPLICATION - DEADLINE APPLICATION NOVEMBER 1. 20 September 2022
Living Lab Biobased Brazil offers a number of biobased internships and biobased graduation internship projects. These projects take place at partner institutions, such as universities and companies. Deadline for application for the period February 2023 – June 2023 is November 1. For more information, see here.
PYROCHEM THROUGH THE EYES OF A STUDENT
Smiling broadly and telling enthusiastically, she sits in front of us. “Yes, the beginning was difficult. The corona measures, difficulty finding housing, finding your way in an unknown country and a different culture.” Just take it as a 22-year-old bachelor student from Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Fortunately, the dust settled quickly and she quickly found her niche among students and colleagues from CoE BBE. Now the countdown to the return journey has already started. “I will take an unforgettable experience back to Brazil. Luggage that I hope I can use to take steps at home in the sustainable development of chemical processes.”
SENIOR RESEARCHER QIAN ZHOU TELLS WHY SHE IS SATISFIED WITH BRAZILIAN INTERNS?
I graduated in Chemical Engineering (Master, 2000) and Material Science (Ph.D., 2003) at Sichuan University in China. As a senior researcher at Avans University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, my passion falls in the process of valorization of solid residual streams (biomass, waste plastics) via pyrolysis technology. That is, convert a variety of solid residual streams (biomass, waste plastics) into fuels, chemicals, and materials through pyrolysis technology; Conceptual process design and optimize pyrolysis technologies for different input streams and products (liquid, gas, carbon); Upgrade and apply of pyrolysis products.
CALL: IDEAS FOR WEBINARS.
One of the focus points of the Living Lab for 2022 is to organize 3 webinars with specialized subjects for professors and students to stimulate knowledge exchange and matching of Brazilian and Dutch professors with a similar research focus. If you have an idea for a topic for one of the webinars or if you would like to help us organize a webinar, please send an e-mail to the living lab team via mgp.verwei@avans.nl.
GREETING FROM BRAZIL.
My name is Yannick, a Dutch student doing my BSc in Chemistry at HZ University of Applied Sciences, with a specialization in Life Sciences. Currently, I am doing my graduation internship in Brazil, where I will stay for six months in total. I have been in Ouro Preto for three weeks now and enjoying life to the fullest!
Why did you choose an internship in Brazil?
The reason why I choose an internship in Brazil is that I have always loved to travel. Doing an internship abroad is one of the few opportunities in life where traveling abroad for a long period is possible. I have never been to South America, so when the Living Lab offered this internship, I grabbed it with both hands.
What is the subject of your internship? Can you already tell us something more about it?
I work in the lab of pathophysiology and anatomy at the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP). This lab mainly focuses on research regarding the effects of specific anesthetics used in clinical practice (Ketamine, Isoflurane, Fentanyl) on organs. On top of that, this lab focuses on the evaluation of Mechanical Ventilation (a tool used in clinical practice during acute or chronic respiratory failure) on the lungs and brains.
WEBINAR STUDENT EXCHANGE, MARCH, 15
The info webinar on student exchange on March the 15th was attended by 20, mainly Brazilian, students. There were talks about general information about the Living Lab, and examples of previous internships. Also, a former exchange student: Mithyzi Leal, came to talk about her experience as a research intern at Avans UAS. She is now working for the Centre of Expertise Biobased Economy. The given information inspired many questions from the audience. Students were especially interested in the language requirements for Dutch internships. If you are interested in an internship in Brazil or the Netherlands, look for more information on the website, or contact mgp.verwei@avans.nl
Deadline for application for internships in February ’23 is the 1st of November.
APPLICATION OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS TO MINIMIZE THE WATER CONSUMPTION OF A PULP MILL LOCATED IN THE RIO DOCE BASIN.
Luewton, Agostinho, Ronaldo Novaes Ferreira Water technology group NHL Stenden.
The WatMin project combined a technical approach with a social science background to assess the implementation of new technologies in the pulp and paper industry. This industry is a major consumer of fresh water and energy resources, resulting in a large environmental footprint. Studies show that reducing environmental impacts by increasing water and energy efficiency in the pulp production process is essential for companies in the sector to remain competitive and sustainable.
‘SCIENCE IN TROUBLE IN BRAZIL'.
“Brazilian scientists are trying to combat deforestation and illegal mining, but the government is not on their side.
Under Bolsonaro, the trend of cutting budgets has continued and the anti-science sentiment is spreading.
How are Judith Verstegen’s fellow researchers in Brazil holding up?”
Read more. Article from Stijn Schreven, February 26, 2022, Resource WUR from within, Wageningen University
UFMG STUDENT RAYSSA SARAH ABOUT HER EXPERIENCES IN THE NETHERLANDS.
My name is Rayssa and I am a chemical engineering student from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil. I am currently in my 5th year and I'll be graduating by the middle of 2022. Doing an exchange program abroad had always been my dream. When I first knew about the Living Lab program, I decided to apply immediately!
The idea of doing an internship in the Netherlands sounded like a great opportunity for my personal development. It happens that my experience here is even better than I imagined. Since September of 2021, I've been working at the Centre of expertise in Biobased Economy (CoE BBE), at Avans University of Applied Sciences,
on a research project regarding the valorization of sewage by producing bioplastics out of it.
Internship positions: Deadline application extend to april 15 2022.
April 2022
Living Lab Biobased Brazil offers a number of biobased internships and biobased graduation internship projects. These projects take place at partner institutions, such as universities and companies. Deadline for application for the period September 2022 – January 2023 is now April 15 . For more information, see here.
Biobased Batlle: october 18th to 21st.
October, 14 2021
The 2021 edition of the Biobased Battle: a competition in the field of circular economy held together with students from UFOP and Avans University of Applied Sciences!
The competition takes place over 4 mornings (October 18th to 21st, from 8h30am to 12h30pm, Brazilian time), with mixed teams of undergraduate and master's students, Brazilian and Dutch, thinking about strategies to reuse waste, applying biobased and circular economy concepts.
It is an excellent event for practicing English, networking, working in multidisciplinary teams and developing creativity. All this, with a certificate of participation in an international event and 20 hours of free ATV.
This year, we chose to work with effluents from domestic sewage from the pulp, paper, and brewing industries. There will be an initial lecture explaining the bases of these residues given by prof. André Santos, from UFC, is a world reference on the subject.
More information: Take a look at last year's participants' testimonials.
Final presentation wat min project (Application of waste water treatment systems to minimize the water consumption of a pulp mill located in the Rio Doce basin).
October, 7 2021
Luewton Agostinho and Ronaldo Novaes Ferreira (Stenden/VHL) would like to invite you for a final presentation and official closing ceremony of the WatMin project. This will be on the 29th of October, Friday, from 13h until 15h in the NL time, or from 8h until 10h in Brasília time: link to the invitation.
The WatMin project was UNIQUE in many different aspects. Here some few aspects:
o It combined Dutch and Brazilian companies and universities using a hbo format for the first time.
o It covered a very important topic linked to the big River Doce basin disaster.
o It presented quite some financial challenges combining contributions from two different countries,
o And (last but not least) it was conducted, in its good part, within COVID19 crisis.
Even with all these challenges, it is possible to say that all the objectives were accomplished. And that this first experience was very positive.
We hope that WatMin was just the first step of many others which will follow and will provide good cooperation between Brazil and The Netherlands involving hbo institutes. Partners: HZ university of Applied Sciences, Cenibra, Berghof, NHL Stenden, SENAI and UFV, made possible by SIA and FAPEMIG.
Webinars 20-21 - Meet and Greets 21-22
October 7, 2021
Last year we organized four successful webinars on different themes (biopolymers, waste water, biofuels and competitive business advantage and sustainability). The average number of participants: 35. Especially the possibility for interaction and the expertise of the guest speakers were appreciated, according to the survey we held afterwards.
For 21-22 the Living Lab wants to organize meet and greets with professors from different disciplines. More information will follow soon.
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energy efficient dwellings by circular facade renovation; researcher internship student Ana Luíza Bitar.
April, 27 2021
Ana Luíza Bitar, a civil engineering bachelor student from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil, is already since January 2020 in the Netherlands. She spent half a year in Groningen for the minor Urban Regeneration at Hanze UAS. Currently, she is doing her graduation internship at Zuyd UAS on the topic: Energy efficient dwellings by urban mined biomimicry-based facade renovation, as part of the Drive 0 project.
The Drive 0 project consists of the renovation of a common typology dwelling in the Netherlands in order to assemble a more energy-efficient building using waste materials from demolition. Her role in the project involves designing a new circular facade for the house, energy simulations and mock-up development. Ana focuses on reusing wood: firstly, as wood fiber insulation; secondly, as a cladding material for the ventilated façade, in which her bio-inspired design is based on the second skin of the cricket.
Regarding the insulation, it was necessary to determine if the fibers of the wood could be used as insulation material. What are the demands? Does this material, for example, meet the requirements of fire resistance?
Furthermore, to make the dwelling more energy-efficient, the façade was designed in a way that the air can circulate throughout the facade. Therefore, the dwelling is not only energy efficient, but it also coolers the building during the summertime. Interesting here is that she also researches the aging process of the wooden cladding material: is it possible to expand the lifespan of the façade by thermal treatment? How to improve the fire resistance of the wood in a circular and bio-based way?
As a final result of her internship, Ana will design an energy-neutral facade solution and a mock-up to be tested for one year in a real situation to validate the results. Moreover, she is developing an article to be published in an international journal.
Last March, Ana presented her first results at the ‘Crossing Boundaries conference. Throughout this conference, many professors, masters and PhD students from all around the world shared their projects and perspectives about the circularity in the built environment.
Despite the Covid-circumstances and the cold weather, Ana enjoys her stay in the Netherlands: “the well-organized public transport and the safety on the streets are impressive”. Finally, since she had the opportunity to study in the far North and far South of our country, she experiences the different dialects and cultures of our country, which she thinks is quite remarkable.
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Biobased Battle
In the week of December 14, 2020, the 8th Biobased Battle took place, organized by Living Lab Biobased Brazil. This time, fully online. More than 45 students from Avans Hogeschool and Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP, Brazil) were asked to find a solution for the residual flows of rice processing (rice husks) or sugar, beer and olive oil production ( bagasse). The biobased battle works according to a pressure cook concept. On the first day, each group of 4-5 students had to come up with as many solutions as possible for one or more residual flows. On the second day, a choice was made on the basis of a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) for the best solution in their opinion. This solution was then further developed. On the last day, the groups pitched their idea to a Brazilian / Dutch Jury that consisted of Erik Lammers (province of North Brabant), Willemien van Asselt (Top Sector Agri & Food), Sergio Aquino (UFOP), Julia Mendes (UFOP) and Jappe de Best (Center of Expertise Biobased Economy). The pitches were assessed by the jury on a number of criteria such as technical feasibility, originality and market potential. In third and second place came groups who had devised a solution for the skins of rice grains. These can be used in biobased concrete or insulation mats. The group of Tim, Joanna, Samuel, Paula & Mateus was declared the unanimous winner. They opted for regional processing of bagasse from sugar and beer production into a protein bar. In addition to a nice certificate, the winning group received an offer from the province of Noord-Brabant to see whether it is possible to further develop their idea through the Brabant-wide start-up support program Braventure. A nice final to a successful week.
webinar & Matchmaking events:
Next webinars are scheduled on:
February 11, 2021 14.00 – 15.30 CET time (10.00 – 11.30 BRT)
April 22, 2021 14.00 – 15.30 CET time (09.00 – 10.30 BRT)
The topics for these webinars will be tuned with the partners of the Living Lab Biobased Brazil
Contact information: Margot Verwei mgp.verwei@avans.nl
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Biobased Battle 2024
Attention students of UFSJ, UFJF, and UFOP! Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to tackle real-world environmental challenges? Don't miss the opportunity to join the Biobased Battle 2024, taking place from October 27-30, online. This event offers a collaborative and educational space for students from Brazilian and Dutch universities to think together on innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues within the construction sector. Engaging in this challenge will enhance your interdisciplinary and intercultural teamwork skills, as well as knowledge about the biobased economy, and the activity could potentially be used for elective credits in your study programs. Interested students are invited to contact their university's international office for further details and registration.
Internship on the intersection of biology and electrical engineering.
Hi all, my name is Victor, I am a 4th year electrical engineering student from UFMG in Brazil. At the moment I am in Breda, the Netherlands, on an internship at MNEXT (Materials and Energy Transition), a group that is part of Avans University of Applied Sciences and HZ University of Applied Sciences.
Back in Brazil I first heard about Living Lab Brazil by a friend who participated in the program, I asked him about the details, because I always had the dream to have experiences abroad, then I decided to apply, even though, at first, I couldn’t see much correlation between the topics presented and my studies. In my course, the interface between the biology and electrical studies is not really worked, despite that, I had an interest in developing new skills. So, when I discovered the Smart Energy department, a department that would work mostly on the energy transition at MNEXT, I decided to apply for topics in that subject as it would feel closer to my background.
In the end, I was selected for research on the effects of electrical treatment in mycelium bio composites. Mycelium is the underground network of fungi and when grown in a substrate in a desired shape, it can form a resistant material. This was interesting for me because it would allow me to use my background knowledge to find better results. At first, it was a bit overwhelming with so many new information, but I was kindly helped by Sander, Stefano and Ilse, my supervisors. Afters this first adaptation, I was able to apply all my knowledge for the research and start experimenting on the lab, which you can see in the image with one of my supervisors, Ilse Rovers.
Before getting to the Netherlands, I had to talk to my school to understand how I could deal an internation internship, the rules, and the preparations I needed for them. Later, I registered and sent all the documents so that I could apply for the Visa and later pick it up. Lastly, I had to apply for housing and packed everything to fly.
The first impressions of the Netherlands were that it would be a bit too cold and sad because of the almost always cloudy weather. However, that was just the first impression, because when I met the people, all changed, I was so well welcomed that all the winter weather went by quickly and I was able to adapt. Also, once you are settled you can explore more the Dutch culture and its beautiful places. The experience has been amazing, I learned so much from the people and the problems I had to face here. Also, as a non-Dutch speaker I thought I would have more trouble communicating, but everyone here speaks good English.
If I could give you any advice for further interns, especially those coming from a distant background from biology or chemistry, is that your knowledge will be valuable here and you will be able to add a lot to the research you are involved in, also you will be helped by the amazing professionals that work here. Smart Energy was a nice surprise for me as I was able to find myself among people from a closer background at the same time I was dealing with biologists. If you are interested, prepare your rain coat and warm up your legs for cycling and then you will have an amazing experience.
It's the Dutch experience!
Reflecting on our experiences as exchange students, we realize just how much we’ve learned and grown. Taking part in the Living Lab Biobased has been an amazing journey filled with challenges and discoveries. Our primary goal was to improve our English skills, and we've made significant progress. Initially, we were very insecure, even to order food. Now, speaking English has become more natural to us. Living in the Netherlands has taught us many things about adapting to a new culture and way of life. For instance, we learned that surviving having just a sandwich for lunch is possible, something we hadn’t considered before. We also discovered that traffic lights can be noisy when crossing the road and that a two-hour drive can be too far away, we don’t know how. The Dutch weather presented its own set of challenges. Wind and rain can be formidable adversaries, while sunny days and bright blue skies become treasured events.
We learned that there are hundreds of species of tulips and that we live in Limburg – not Holland – and that is a huge difference (we have vlaai!). We were also very impressed that lots of dialects exist in one country that is almost 205 smaller than ours. We learned that Albert Heijn is everywhere and that a train can derail and you will be left behind at the station because the warning was given in Dutch and you didn’t understand. We learned that it’s not Van Gogh it’s Van Rrrrrroooorrrh.
In Portuguese there’s a word calling “saudade”. It means a nostalgic longing to be near again something or someone that is distant. We experienced that “saudade” can hit different when we are 9000 km and +5 hours away. Despite that, we’ve made incredible connections here. The Netherlands has given us a new Brazilian family while here and have taught us a lot about friendship. Additionally, we have also made wonderful Dutch friends who have welcomed us with open arms and shared their culture with us.
During our exchange program at CHILL, the laboratory experience was transformative, providing us with invaluable practical skills and a deeper understanding of scientific research methodologies. The handson experience with advanced laboratory equipment enhanced our technical proficiency and confidence in conducting experiments. Collaborating with international peers exposed us to diverse perspectives and approaches to problem-solving, enriching our analytical skills and contributing to a collaborative spirit. These immersive lab experiences not only reinforced our theoretical knowledge but also taught us the significance of teamwork, communication, and adaptability in a research setting. Every day, we learn more about gratitude and seizing opportunities. The initial anxiety and nervousness we felt upon arriving have gradually given way to growing confidence. We’ve learned that the world is huge and that life can be surprisingly simple.
Yet, there are still mysteries to unravel—like how to ride a bike without using both hands. Maybe one day we’ll master that skill too!
Met vriendelijke groeten!
Adriano, Ana Laura, Bianca, Bruno, Isabella, Sofia and Thales.
Sandwich-PhD via Living Lab Brazil
About a year ago I (Jappe de Best) received a request from Claudio Mudadu, a professor that I met several times on my trips to Belo Horizonte and who received several Dutch students for an internship at Universidade Federal de Vicosa (UFV). He asked if I would be willing to receive one of his PhD students. This student received a sandwich PhD grant from Capes PRint and wanted to come to The Netherlands to do part of her research at Avans-MNEXT. She was especially interested in pyrolysis and LCA. Two main research topics of my research group. I liked the idea immediately because I think it is a perfect way to further develop cooperation within the living lab, and it offers PhD students the opportunity to go abroad. Since it was the first time for a PhD exchange within the Living lab Brazil it took a bit of time arranging the exchange, but it was worthwhile waiting. In September 2023, Bruna joined my research group. During her stay she has been able to link the research that she did in Brazil with the research we do at Avans-MNEXT. It definitely enriched our knowledge and experience and will also lead to 2 nice publications.
When end of last year I got another request for a PhD exchange, this time from Sonia Carvalho Ribeiro from UFMG, it was not hard to say yes. In April2024, Ana Carolina Mendes dos Santos came to Avans-MNEXT for a stay of 3 months. Ana receives a grant from Programa de Doutorado-sanduíche no Exterior (PDSE) from Capes to fund her exchange. During her stay she looks into drivers and barriers in the implementation of the circular bioeconomy in the Netherlands and how this could help implementation of circular bioeconomy in Brazil. I think it is very nice that in this way we can learn from each other.
All-in all, I am very happy with the first 2 PhD exchanges that we realized within the living lab Brazil. I can recommend it to everyone, and I would be very happy to receive more PhD students in future.
If you want to know more about the grant that Bruno and Ana received you can look here:
- Programa Institucional de Internacionalização – CAPES - PrInt
- Programa de Doutorado-sanduíche no Exterior (PDSE)
If you want to know more about the experiences of Bruna you can read an interview with her: https://www.biobasedbrazil.org/2023/11/23/phd-on-waste-management/.
Jappe de Best
Brazilian students excited about video Zuyd University of Applied Science.
Together with Brazilian students Gabriel Domingues, Mariana Gouvea, Ana-Flavia de Oliveira and Matheus Mugayar, Zuyd produced a video to reach future Brazilian students. And to quickly inform coordinators and professors of the Brazilian universities on the impact of the exchange for their Brazilian students. The video shows a very realistic view of the applied research projects in the laboratories that they participate in for a semester. Enjoy the enthusiasm of the Brazilian students in the video. Link to the video.
Internship on quantum dots solar cells at UFSJ
I’m Francesca Figaroli an Italian international student from ESSET, Environmental Sciences and Sustainable Technologies and I’m currently in my first internship period. Since the beginning of my course, I knew I wanted to do my internship abroad because I always saw it as a useful and interesting opportunity and the perfect time to travel. I chose Brazil for different reasons. First of all, I wanted to experience life outside of Europe. Then two of my professors, Thais Lima de Castro and Bruno Bastos Sales are Brazilian and I had such a good impression of Brazilian people. Thanks to them that I decided to move to the other side of the world. Then of course also the will to visit such a big country with a magnificent variety of flora and fauna and cities.
Lab work
Right now I’m in the state of Minas Gerais in the city of Sao Joao del Rei a small city, in Brazilian terms, at about two hours from Belo Horizonte, working with a research group in the Federal University UFSJ. In the laboratory, the environment is really friendly and welcoming and I found it very useful working with people with different levels of experience and studies background. Indeed, there are master’s students from physics, chemistry, engineering doctorates, and undergraduates all working together to help each other. Therefore, together with them, I managed to carry out my project which is about synthesising quantum dots of different materials and applying them to solar cells that we build on a laboratory scale
I didn't expect to enjoy lab work so much, but working with your hands and applying your study background to something you actually build and work on is something I really enjoy. Step by step, from cleaning the glasses to synthesizing the materials to applying all the different layers of materials needed, I managed to close my first cells without much effort because here you learn by doing.
The campus
The University environment is really vivid and present in any case of need. One of the most useful things in my opinion for students is the canteen which prepares proper meals for lunch and dinner at a really cheap price and it is present on all the campus of the university which is three in different areas of the city. I spend most of my time at Campus Don Bosco where my laboratories are. The Campus Tancredo Neves is the biggest one and the one where I live since the University has some apartments available for students here. I think making friends here is easy and going out in the city is really nice. The historical center is always full of life. At the same time due to the high presence of university students’ pubs, parties, and many organised activities are present. This area of Brazil is famous for the high presence of waterfalls and students love to organize walking trips to reach them.
Preparation
Before leaving I contacted my supervisor and the international office in order to have some basic important information as regarding addresses, contacts, how was it possible to have a Brazilian number, where to go to change euro into reais, which type of plug is present here, if the apartment already had wi-fi and so on. Their answers were really helpful and the response was quick.
Tips
Some advice that I would give to a student who is willing to travel to Brazil is start to look for information regarding the Visa months before as well as for the vaccinations needed; to be ready for high temperatures and humidity so bring light clothes; everything that you need regarding medical support is present also here but always good to bring some medication which you are used to in Europe. Try all the food you can because the Brazilian food is great. Be ready to encounter people that are really curious about you and keep in mind that Brazilian would do everything to make you part of the community and to make you spend time with them which is really amazing!
PhD on waste management
I am Bruna Virgínia, a Forest Engineer with a master's in Forest Science – Wood technology. I am currently a PhD student at the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV). My research is about waste management, where we try to find a more sustainable solution for the “waste” generated by industries. The main focus during my master's and also in the first two chapters of my PhD is the production of renewable fuel using sludge from the effluent treatment plant of a pulp and paper mill in Brazil. We produced pellets, a densified solid fuel that can be burned in boilers to generate thermal energy.
Why did you choose for an internship in the Netherlands?
The program of Environmental Science for Sustainable Energy and Technology is a top-rated program, proving to be a benchmark in economic development aligned with sustainability. In addition, important partnerships between Avans Hogeschool and UFV have already been successfully established through the Living Lab project. I believe that being at Avans with the MNEXT and working with excellent professionals from different fields would contribute a lot to the progress of my PhD work, and at the same time, I would be able to learn with the current projects that are being developed here.
What is the subject? Can you tell us something more about it?
In Brazil we have already tested the technical feasibility of producing pellets using pulp and paper mill sludge. Now here at Avans, with the MNEXT, we will test the environmental feasibility of this process through a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA study). In addition, we are investigating new production routes to apply the sludge, transforming it into a more valuable product.
How did preparations go before your trip?
There were a lot of bureaucratic issues to solve before the trip, the visa, finding a house in Netherlands, airplane tickets, and choosing the best day to arrive. The International Office from Avans was very helpful with this. I also had a lot of meetings with the researchers of MNEXT to find the best way to integrate my Ph.D. project in Brazil with the works that are being developed here.
What tips do you have for students who want to go to Netherlands?
The weather in the Netherlands is very different from what I was used to, so I would say be prepared for a little rain. Knowing how to ride a bike also helps a lot, because that's probably the best way to get around the city. In addition, don't be afraid to ask a Dutch person anything. You can talk to them in English and they will be happy to help you
Extra information:
The duration of the PhD in Brazil is usually 4 years. There is a Brazilian program, called Sandwich PhD, where the researcher does a part of their work in a foreign country in partnership with other universities, the duration can vary according to the work, usually between 6 months and 1 year. This program contributes to the exchange of knowledge between different countries and can aggregate in different ways in the work that is being developed. I am part of this program, and I chose Avans as the destination institution, and now I will be a guest researcher here for 1 year as part of my PhD.
Breakfast/Lunch and learn
MNEXT (Centre of Expertise Material and Energy Transition)* will be organizing monthly "Lunch (or Breakfast) & Learn" sessions in the field of materials and energy transition. They will keep you updated on the program for the upcoming months via this link. Our next "Lunch & Learn" is scheduled for December 14, and it will focus on Energy Holocracy. Intrigued? Be sure to reserve the date in your calendar, as more information will follow soon.
If you would also like to lecture in a related topic, please contact our colleague Wendy van Rijsbergen.
*A collaboration of Avans and HZ University of Applied Sciences and formely known by the name Centre of Expertise Biobased Economy.
Biobased Battle 2027
More than 40 students of the Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF), Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP), Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei (UFSJ) and Avans University of Applied Sciences enjoyed another biobased battle.
This year, the students travelled to the future. More specific to the year 2073. In this year, the Energy and Material Transition has been a resounding success. All energy now comes from wind, sun, and renewable sources. All carbon-based materials are now made from renewable sources. The former Oil and Gas multinationals have almost disappeared.
In groups of 4-5, the students had to look back in time and describe how the thought this huge transformation took place.
Which major idea was embraced that brought a change from fossil fuel use to renewable sources? What were the costs needed to implement the idea and what were the environmental benefits?
On Thursday the groups pitched their ideas for an international jury. Some very interesting solutions were presented. There is still hope ....
Internship Positions - Deadline application
Living Lab Biobased Brazil offers a number of internships and biobased graduation internship projects. New is the addition of topics on Smart Energy and Biobased Construction.These projects take place at partner institutions, such as universities and companies. Deadline for application for the period September 2023 – January 2024 is April 1. Click here for more information.
Lunch/Breakfast & Learn
Every two weeks we update anyone who is interested on specific themes from the materials and energy transition. During the Lunch & Learn lectures, every Thursday afternoon from 12:15 to 1:00 pm (CET), you follow presentations by experts or join a broad discussion on a topic. All Lunch & Learn lectures will be English spoken. Find here more information! If you also would like to share an interesting topic, please contact: info@coebbe.nl
Information talks for Brazilian students